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Anyone who knows Ireland will have their own favourite parts of the country and of Irish life and culture. There are parts of Ireland however that are on the path less travelled and offer the kind of places and activities for which the term ‘hidden gem’ certainly applies. One of these places is Roscommon and its most commonly associated activity, horseracing.
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Roscommon races typify what horseracing is to the history and culture of hidden Ireland and presents a wholly authentic local flavour to the sport and the hospitality which goes with it.
Roscommon is a town in the county of the same name and is located in the heart of the country. Sports are popular in Roscommon, and the town boasts a 30,000 capacity Gaelic Football stadium and a handball club of world renown. Like everywhere else in Ireland however, nothing stirs the passions like horseracing and it is to Roscommon races that most sports fans look for leisure, for thrills and for entertainment. The racecourse is situated 1km from the town centre, easily reached via the main Dublin to Castlebar Road. Regular train services operate between Dublin and Roscommon station.
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Roscommon races officially began in 1885 and in spite of its obvious local appeal the course has welcomed some very famous horses. Imperial Call had an inauspicious start to his career coming third in a novice chase at Roscommon before going on to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1996.
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Enzelli did better by winning a race at the course, a year before being the first Irish horse in 30 years to win the Ascot Gold Cup in 1999. The stables at the course can accommodate up to 95 horses and the facilities are excellent. Such are the ongoing developments at Roscommon that in 2004 the course was recognised with an award for the most improved racecourse in Ireland.
The improvements in facilities are certainly to be welcomed but Roscommon races have always been hotly contested. It is viewed by trainers as an excellent introduction course for their best novices and large fields are common. For the racegoer this means the opportunity to view the next superstars and enjoy some very lively betting. The stands and enclosures provide great race views for all and the local ambience and interest makes for a welcoming and exciting race day experience. |
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The main event at Roscommon races, not to be missed by those who expect the best, is the Kilbegnet Novice Chase, a Grade III meeting in October with a prize of €40,000. There are further meetings in June and July, when all the fun of the races spills back into town and culminates in the kind of revelry that Ireland does best.
Adult admission to the course is €13 for weekday and Saturday races and €15 for Sunday fixtures. For students and OAPs the prices are €8 and €10 and children under 14 get into all races for free. Families are welcome and a good day out can be had for less than many other family attractions. Facilities include a large dining room, snack bar, tea room and a self-service restaurant. There is also a selection of bars for refreshments.
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Horseracing forms an ideal backdrop to private functions, group days out and corporate events. All the facilities and hospitality is in place at Roscommon to cater for between 20 and 60 guests for any special occasion or corporate gathering. Marquees can also be erected on site for larger groups on premier race days. All catering can be supplied to suit the event and an all-inclusive hospitality package can ensure all guests can get involved in the racing whatever their previous experience.
This website is operated by Websitebrokers Limited and is not affiliated to any one racecourse or group of racecourses. |
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