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Horseracing is a popular sport and leisure activity in most countries but in Ireland it is something of a national obsession. There are great racecourses found throughout the whole of Ireland but there is one place where Irish thoroughbred racing calls home and that is Co. Kildare; recognised as a world centre in breeding, training and racing. The Curragh is the flagship racecourse in Co. Kildare and Ireland, and by staging all five Irish Classics, it represents the pinnacle of thoroughbred Flat racing. Another Co. Kildare course, Punchestown does the same for jump racing and hosts the National Hunt Festival of Ireland. The third racecourse in Co. Kildare is Naas and if horses triumph at the other two course, they probably used their skills and experience gained in Naas races.
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Naas is the county town of Co. Kildare and in ancient times welcomed the kings of Ireland, who in all likelihood rode their horses. It wasn’t until 1924 however that Naas races officially began in the course which stands today just 1km from the town centre. Naas Racecourse proved an instant success and very quickly established itself as a premier venue for testing the best talent in racing.
The great Arkle raced at Naas in the 1960s, as did Mill House and many Grand National Winners of the day. In recent years other outstanding horses have graced the turf at Naas, including 2-year old Irish Champion, Damson who won here in 2004 before doing the same at Royal Ascot. Cheltenham Festival winners Imperial Call, Pizarro, Danoli, and local hero Doran’s Pride, all raced at Naas.
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It is clear that Naas races have an outstanding pedigree for unearthing champions and the consistency in doing so is no co-incidence. For a start, its location could not be better. Not only does Naas occupy a space at the centre of Irish horseracing, providing a convenient platform for local talent, it is also just 32 km from Dublin, with special race day buses drawing the crowds from the capital.
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This creates a great atmosphere which can compete with any racecourse in the country, and the crowd is made up if keen racing enthusiasts looking for the next superstar and anyone else just looking for a great day out. The track at Naas plays its part too, providing all the necessary challenges which make for thrilling races.
For many attending Naas races the day is all about having fun, whether as a family day out, a group celebration, or corporate event. The superb facilities at the course allow people to make the most of any such experience at the races. In addition to the great trials on show for the racing purists there are many Naas races where emphasis is on the social aspects of the event. Family fun days incorporate a host of children’s features such as face painting and bouncy castles, while evening fixtures and summer barbecue nights have live entertainment laid on when the races are over.
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There are three bars at the course and one of them, the Opera Hat Bar has a snack area. Further dining options include the Carvery Restaurant and the exclusive environment of the Panoramic Restaurant. Hospitality packages are available and contain all required to enjoy a private event or celebration.
Race day dining packages within the Panoramic Restaurant start from as little as €40 per person, and there are private suites available too.
Standard admission to the course offers great value too, costing €15 per adult with all people under 18 going free. Additionally there are concessions available and groups of 10 or more enjoy a 20% discount on standard entry fees.
This website is operated by Websitebrokers Limited and is not affiliated to any one racecourse or group of racecourses. |
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