Navan Racecourse is a popular dual-purpose track located in County Meath, Ireland. It is situated around 50km northeast of Dublin and boasts a rich history dating back to its opening in 1920. The course plays host to a total of 17 fixtures throughout the year, with both Flat and jumps racing taking place.
Navan is considered to be a very fair course, with a left-handed oval track measuring around 12f and a straight that is 3.5f long. The course also features a 2.5f chute into the straight to allow 6f races to be run on a straight course. The stiff finish can expose any stamina limitations runners may have, making for some exciting finishes.
History of Navan Racecourse
Navan Racecourse, located in Proudstown near Navan, County Meath, Ireland, has a rich history dating back almost 100 years. Originally known as Proudstone Park, it opened its doors in 1921 thanks to the vision of Albert Lowry, who was passionate about breeding horses and gambling.
Over the years, the course has undergone many transformations, becoming one of the most modern venues in the country. Today, it is owned by Horse Racing Ireland and is best known for its National Hunt racing.
Navan Racecourse has played host to some of the biggest names in racing each year, including the Grade 1 Navan Novice Hurdle and Grade 2 Monksfield Hurdle, both won by Death Duty in 2016. The Ballysax Stakes and Vintage Crop Stakes (both Group 3s) are the most notable races on the Flat, the latter won in 2016 by subsequent Derby winner Harzand.
Throughout its history, Navan Racecourse has remained a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts, both in Ireland and around the world. Its commitment to excellence and tradition continues to make it a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for the sport.
Location and Directions
Navan Racecourse is located on the R162 Proudstown Road, approximately 5km from Navan town centre in County Meath, Ireland. The racecourse is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi.
For those travelling by car, Navan Racecourse is situated just off the M3 motorway. Take Exit 9 for Navan and follow the signs for the racecourse. There is ample free parking available for racegoers.
Bus Eireann operates an hourly service to Navan from Busáras from 7.30 am (weekdays) and from 9 am (Sundays). Taxis are available at the bus station to travel to the track, which is approximately a 10-minute drive away.
If you are travelling by train, the closest station is Drogheda, which is approximately 30 minutes away by car. There are also regular train services to Dublin, which is approximately an hour’s drive away from the racecourse.
For those travelling by air, Dublin Airport is the closest airport to Navan Racecourse, located approximately 45 minutes away by car. There are also regular bus services from Dublin Airport to Navan town centre.
Overall, Navan Racecourse is easily accessible from all major transport links and is well-signposted from the surrounding areas.
Facilities at Navan Racecourse
Grandstand and Hospitality
Navan Racecourse offers an impressive grandstand that provides an excellent view of the track. The grandstand is equipped with comfortable seating, and there are also private hospitality suites available for hire. These suites offer a luxurious experience with a private balcony and bar, perfect for entertaining clients or celebrating a special occasion.
Bars and Restaurants
Navan Racecourse has a variety of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. The main restaurant, The Terrace, offers a fine dining experience with stunning views of the track. There is also a self-service restaurant, The Pantry, which serves a range of hot and cold dishes. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast food outlets and snack bars available.
Betting Facilities
There are several betting facilities available at Navan Racecourse, including on-course bookmakers and Tote betting. The Tote offers a range of betting options, including placepots and jackpots. There are also several betting shops located in the town centre, just a short distance from the racecourse.
Children’s Entertainment
Navan Racecourse is a family-friendly venue, and there are plenty of activities for children to enjoy. The Big Zeb Kids Room is a dedicated area for children, with interactive touchscreen games and a playground.
There are also pony rides available on race days, and children under 16 can attend the races for free when accompanied by an adult.
Overall, Navan Racecourse offers a range of facilities to ensure a fantastic day out for all. Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Racing Events at Navan Racecourse
Navan Racecourse is a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts in Ireland. The course hosts a variety of racing events throughout the year, including both Flat and National Hunt racing. Here are some of the most notable racing events at Navan Racecourse:
Annual Fixtures
Navan Racecourse holds a total of 17 fixtures each year, with the racing season running from January to December. Some of the most popular annual fixtures at Navan Racecourse include the Tara Handicap Hurdle, the Troytown Handicap Chase, and the Navan Novice Hurdle.
The Tara Handicap Hurdle is a Grade B National Hunt race that takes place in February. The race is open to horses aged four years and older and is run over a distance of 2 miles and 4 furlongs.
The Troytown Handicap Chase is another Grade B National Hunt race that takes place in November. The race is open to horses aged five years and older and is run over a distance of 3 miles.
The Navan Novice Hurdle is a Grade 2 National Hunt race that takes place in December. The race is open to horses aged four years and older and is run over a distance of 2 miles.
Major Races
Navan Racecourse hosts several major races throughout the year, including the Vintage Crop Stakes and the Ballysax Stakes.
The Vintage Crop Stakes is a Group 3 Flat race that takes place in April. The race is open to horses aged four years and older and is run over a distance of 1 mile and 6 furlongs.
The Ballysax Stakes is another Group 3 Flat race that takes place in April. The race is open to three-year-old horses and is run over a distance of 1 mile and 2 furlongs.
Festivals
Navan Racecourse also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Boyne Hurdle Day and the Easter Festival.
The Boyne Hurdle Day takes place in February and features several National Hunt races, including the Grade 2 Boyne Hurdle.
The Easter Festival takes place in March or April and features several Flat and National Hunt races, including the Vintage Crop Stakes and the Navan Novice Hurdle.
Overall, Navan Racecourse offers a variety of exciting racing events throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for horse racing fans in Ireland.
How to Place a Bet at Navan Racecourse
Navan Racecourse is one of the most popular racecourses in Ireland, attracting thousands of visitors every year. If you are planning to attend a race meeting at Navan, you may be wondering how to place a bet. Here’s what you need to know:
On-Course Bookmakers
On-course bookmakers are the most traditional way to place a bet at Navan. They can be found in the betting ring, where they will be displaying their odds for each race. To place a bet with a bookmaker, simply approach their stand and tell them the name of the horse you wish to bet on and the amount you wish to stake. If your horse wins, return to the bookmaker to collect your winnings.
Online Sports Books
Online sports books are becoming an increasingly popular way to place bets at Navan. They offer a convenient and easy way to place bets from anywhere, at any time. To use an online sports book, simply create an account with a reputable bookmaker and deposit funds. You can then browse the available markets and place your bets online. If your bet wins, your winnings will be credited to your account.
Tote Betting
Tote betting is a form of pool betting that can offer better value than traditional bookmakers. To place a tote bet at Navan, simply visit one of the Tote booths located throughout the course. You can then choose the type of bet you wish to place and the amount you wish to stake. If your bet wins, your winnings will be calculated based on the total amount staked in the pool and the number of winning tickets.
Exchange Betting
Exchange betting is a relatively new form of betting that allows you to bet against other punters rather than against the bookmaker. To place an exchange bet at Navan, you will need to create an account with a betting exchange such as Betfair. You can then browse the available markets and place your bets by offering odds to other punters or by accepting the odds offered by other punters.
Overall, there are multiple ways to place a bet at Navan Racecourse, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Whether you prefer to bet with traditional bookmakers, online sports books, or through pool or exchange betting, there is an option to suit every punter’s needs.
Tips for Attending Navan Racecourse
What to Wear
When attending Navan Racecourse, it is important to dress appropriately for the occasion. For the Flat races, smart casual attire is acceptable, but for the National Hunt races, it is recommended to wear warm, comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking on grass. Ladies often wear hats or fascinators for special occasions.
What to Bring
It is always a good idea to bring some cash as not all vendors accept card payments. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for sunny days, while a raincoat or umbrella is necessary for wet weather. Binoculars can enhance the viewing experience, and a racecard can help keep track of the races and horses. It is important to note that glass bottles are not allowed on the premises.
Etiquette
When attending Navan Racecourse, it is important to be respectful of others and follow proper etiquette. Avoid blocking the view of others and refrain from using mobile phones during races. Cheer for your favourite horse, but do not excessively shout or scream. Do not litter and dispose of rubbish in the designated bins. Finally, always listen to the announcements and follow the instructions of the staff.
Conclusion
Navan Racecourse is a must-visit destination for horse racing enthusiasts. The course’s unique layout, challenging uphill finish, and variety of races make it a popular choice for both Flat and National Hunt racing.
The relaxed and friendly atmosphere at Navan Racecourse makes it an excellent day out for families and groups of friends. The course’s central location in County Meath, just 48 kilometres from Dublin, makes it accessible to visitors from all over Ireland and beyond.
Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, Navan Racecourse has something to offer everyone. From the excitement of the big races to the thrill of placing a bet, Navan is a great place to experience the thrill of horse racing.
With its fair course and stiff finish, Navan is a great place to test the stamina and skill of both horses and jockeys. The course’s reputation for being a challenging track means that only the best horses and jockeys can hope to win at Navan.
Overall, Navan Racecourse is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in horse racing. With its unique layout, challenging finish, and variety of races, Navan is a great place to experience the excitement and thrill of horse racing in Ireland.