A Guide To Gowran Park Racecourse

Gowran Park Racecourse is a Grade 1 ranked horseracing venue that hosts both National Hunt and flat racing. Located just a kilometre south of the town of Gowran, in the east of County Kilkenny, it is scenically located just 13km east of Kilkenny. The racecourse has been in operation since 1914 and is one of the most popular venues for horseracing enthusiasts in Ireland.

Gowran Park Racecourse is a dual-purpose track that hosts 17 race days throughout the year. The feature race during the National Hunt season at Gowran Park is the Thyestes Chase, which is a handicap chase held in January. It is usually a prep for the Grand National. The racecourse is best known for jumps races during the winter months, and there are three Grade 2 events held here.

If you’re planning to attend a race day, it’s important to know what to expect and how to make the most of your experience. This guide to Gowran Park Racecourse will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit, including details on the racecourse, upcoming fixtures, and tips for making the most of your day at the races.

Location and History

Gowran Park Racecourse is located in County Kilkenny, just 13km east of Kilkenny City, Ireland. The racecourse is situated in a scenic location surrounded by green fields and features an 18-hole golf course.

The racecourse first opened its gates to the racing public on June 16, 1914. The inaugural race programme consisted of flat races and steeplechases. Since then, the racecourse has become a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts from all over the world.

Over the years, Gowran Park Racecourse has undergone several renovations and improvements to ensure that it remains a world-class racing venue. The racecourse has a dual-purpose track that hosts racing events throughout the year. The track stages both flat and National Hunt action across 17 meetings which run from January to December.

Gowran Park Racecourse has a rich history and has hosted many prestigious races over the years, including the Thyestes Handicap Chase, the Champion Novice Hurdle, and the Denny Cordell Lavarack & Lanwades Stud Fillies Stakes.

Today, Gowran Park Racecourse is one of the leading racing venues in Ireland and attracts thousands of visitors every year. With its picturesque location, world-class facilities, and exciting racing events, Gowran Park Racecourse is a must-visit destination for any horse racing enthusiast.

Races and Events

Gowran Park Racecourse hosts a variety of races and events throughout the year. There are 18 race meetings in 2023, including six National Hunt race days and 12 Flat race days. Some of the notable events include:

• Goffs Thyestes Day – This National Hunt handicap chase takes place each January and is the highlight of the racecourse’s calendar. The race is run over three miles and one furlong, with a maximum field of 18 runners. Many of the horses who compete in the Thyestes Chase go on to compete in the Grand National.
• Red Mills Day – This Flat race day takes place in February and features the Red Mills Trial Hurdle, a Grade 3 race over two miles. The race is often used as a prep race for the Cheltenham Festival in March.
• Shamrock Chase Day – This National Hunt race day takes place in March and features the Shamrock Chase, a Grade 2 race over two miles and four furlongs. The race is often used as a prep race for the Aintree Grand National in April.
• Ladies Day – This Flat race day takes place in June and is a popular event for fashion-conscious racegoers. There are prizes for the best-dressed lady, best hat, and best-dressed couple.
• Denny Cordell Day – This Flat race day takes place in August and features the Denny Cordell Lavarack & Lanwades Stud Fillies Stakes, a Group 3 race over one mile and one furlong.
• PwC Champion Chase Day – This National Hunt race day takes place in October and features the PwC Champion Chase, a Grade 2 race over two miles. The race is often used as a prep race for the Cheltenham Festival in March.

Overall, Gowran Park Racecourse offers a diverse range of races and events throughout the year, catering to both National Hunt and Flat racing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, there is sure to be an event that suits your tastes at this scenic Irish racecourse.

Facilities and Amenities

Gowran Park Racecourse offers a range of facilities and amenities to ensure that visitors have an enjoyable and comfortable experience. Here are some of the key amenities:

• Restaurants and Bars: There are several restaurants and bars available throughout the racecourse, offering a range of food and drink options.
• Corporate Hospitality: Gowran Park offers a range of corporate hospitality packages, including private boxes and suites.
• Children’s Play Area: There is a children’s play area available, ensuring that families with young children can enjoy a day at the races.
• Free Parking: There is ample free parking available for visitors to the racecourse.
• Disabled Access: Gowran Park offers facilities for visitors with disabilities, including disabled parking, wheelchair access, and accessible toilets.

In addition to these amenities, Gowran Park also offers a range of other services, including betting facilities, a racecard service, and a shuttle bus service from Kilkenny City Centre on race days. Visitors can also take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the racecourse.

Overall, Gowran Park Racecourse offers a range of amenities and facilities to ensure that visitors have an enjoyable and comfortable experience. Whether you are a racing enthusiast or a family looking for a fun day out, there is something for everyone at Gowran Park.

Tips for Attending Gowran Park Racecourse

Attending a race day at Gowran Park can be a thrilling and exciting experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your day:

• Plan ahead: Check the race schedule and plan your day accordingly. Arrive early to avoid traffic and to find a good spot to watch the races.
• Dress appropriately: Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Gowran Park is an outdoor venue, so be prepared for rain or shine.
• Bring cash: While there are ATMs on site, bringing cash can save you time and hassle. Many vendors only accept cash payments.
• Explore the facilities: Gowran Park offers modern hospitality facilities, including restaurants, bars, and private suites. Take some time to explore and find the perfect spot to enjoy the races.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is important, especially if you plan to enjoy alcoholic beverages. There are water stations located throughout the venue.
• Place bets responsibly: Betting on the races can be exciting, but it’s important to do so responsibly. Set a budget and stick to it. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
• Enjoy the atmosphere: Gowran Park has a lively and festive atmosphere. Take in the excitement and enjoy the company of fellow racegoers.

By following these tips, you can ensure a fun and memorable day at Gowran Park Racecourse.

Conclusion

Gowran Park Racecourse is a beautiful and well-maintained racecourse that offers a great day out for both racing enthusiasts and casual visitors. The course is surrounded by green fields and features an 18-hole golf course inside the racing track, making it easy on the eye and a great place to spend a day out with friends and family.

With 16 fixtures held annually, there are plenty of opportunities to catch some exciting horse racing action. The course is a right-handed oval of 1 1/2 miles for chases and 1 mile 3 furlongs for flat races, with a run-in of 3 furlongs and an uphill finish. There are 6 hurdles and 7 fences on the circuit, providing a challenging test for both horse and jockey.

Whether you are a seasoned racing fan or a novice, there is something for everyone at Gowran Park. The course offers a variety of hospitality packages to suit all budgets, from casual dining to fine dining experiences. There are also over 20 screens to follow all the action, so you won’t miss a moment of the excitement.

Overall, Gowran Park Racecourse is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a fun day out with friends or family. With its stunning surroundings, top-class facilities, and exciting racing action, it’s no wonder that Gowran Park is one of the most popular racecourses in Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key Gowran Park tips for first-time visitors?

First-time visitors are advised to explore all betting options available at the racecourse, including the on-site BoyleSports branch, Tote facilities, and independent bookmakers in the Betting Ring. Familiarising yourself with racing lingo and betting guides available on the racecourse’s official website can also enhance your experience.

How can I find the Gowran Park races fixtures for 2024?

The racecourse hosts a mix of National Hunt and Flat race days throughout the year, including notable events like Goffs Thyestes Day, Red Mills Day, and Ladies Day. For a detailed list of fixtures for 2024, visiting the official Gowran Park Racecourse website provides the most up-to-date information.

Are there any accommodations recommended for visitors to Gowran Park races?

While Gowran itself may not have large hotels, the nearby town of Kilkenny offers a variety of accommodations, from family-run B&Bs to larger hotels suitable for all budgets. Gowran Park Racecourse’s website lists recommended hotels, although no negotiated discounts are currently offered.

What notable races should I look out for at Gowran Park?

Gowran Park hosts several significant races throughout the year, including the Galmoy Hurdle and Thyestes Chase in January, Red Mills Trial Hurdle and Chase in February, and other prestigious events spread across the season. Each race has its own history and level of competition, making them exciting for spectators and bettors alike.

Can you provide Gowran Park tips for betting?

For those looking for Gowran Park betting tips, a strategic approach could involve following a reputable tipster from Betting Gods. If there’s a strong tip for the day, it will be published to members. Joining a tipster service with Betting Gods will provide tailored advice for races at Gowran Park, giving bettors an edge in their betting strategy.