Sligo town and is easily accessible by road, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists.
Visitors to Sligo Racecourse can expect a thrilling day out, with a range of fixtures and events taking place throughout the year. The course is particularly popular during the summer months, with the majority of meetings held in the evening time. This makes it a great option for those looking for an exciting night out, with the added bonus of live horse racing.
Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Sligo Racecourse is sure to impress. With its stunning location, exciting fixtures, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that it has become one of the most popular racing venues in the country.
Location and Overview
Sligo Racecourse is a picturesque racing venue located in County Sligo, Ireland. The racecourse is situated in the heart of Yeats Country, between the mountains of Benbulben and Knocknarea, making it one of the most scenic racecourses in the country. The venue is often used by photographers and the media as a set due to its stunning location.
Circuit
Sligo Racecourse is a right-handed, undulating, and sharp track with a slight uphill finish. The track is approximately one mile and two furlongs in circumference, with a run-in of about 220 yards. The circuit is relatively flat, but the stiffest part of the track is the uphill finish that makes it a challenging course for horses.
Course Map
The track is well-maintained and provides a fair test for both flat and National Hunt racing. The course is also known for its tight turns, which require jockeys to be alert and responsive.
Sligo Racecourse is located on Cleveragh Road, Sligo Town, Co Sligo, Republic of Ireland. The venue is easily accessible by road, with ample parking available for visitors. The racecourse is also well-served by public transport, with regular bus services running to and from the venue.
Overall, Sligo Racecourse is a fantastic venue for anyone looking to experience Irish racing in a stunning location. Whether you are a seasoned punter or a casual racegoer, Sligo Racecourse is sure to provide an exciting and memorable day out.
Racing at Sligo
Sligo Racecourse is a popular venue for horse racing in Ireland, with a rich history dating back to 1781. The track is located in County Sligo and is known for its scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Racing at Sligo takes place during the summer and autumn months, with both flat and National Hunt races held on the track.
Summer Fixtures
During the summer season, Sligo Racecourse hosts several race meetings, including the popular two-day Sligo Summer Festival. This festival usually takes place in early August and features a range of flat races, including the Sligo Stakes and the Martin Reilly BMW Handicap. The festival attracts top jockeys and trainers from across Ireland, including Michael Mulvany, Paul Townend, Gary Carroll, and Jessica Harrington.
Autumn Fixtures
In the autumn, Sligo Racecourse hosts a number of National Hunt races, including the Sligo Maiden Hurdle and the Sligo Handicap Chase. These races attract a different set of horses and jockeys, with a focus on jumps rather than flat racing. The autumn season at Sligo is a great opportunity to see some of the best National Hunt horses in action.
Hurdles and Jumps
Sligo Racecourse is known for its sharp, undulating track, which is particularly challenging for horses running over jumps. The run to the straight is slightly uphill, making it a track that suits speed horses. However, the sharp turns and uphill finish can be difficult for low drawn runners.
Overall, Sligo Racecourse is a great place to experience the excitement of horse racing in Ireland. Whether you’re a fan of flat or National Hunt races, there’s something for everyone at this scenic and challenging track.
The Grandstand
The Grandstand at Sligo Racecourse is a modern and spacious facility that offers excellent views of the racecourse. It is located at the town end of the course and is accessible by lift. The Grandstand has a number of viewing areas and facilities that make it a popular choice for racegoers.
Viewing Areas
The Grandstand has several viewing areas that offer excellent views of the racecourse. The main viewing area is located opposite the winning post and provides an unobstructed view of the finish line. There is also a balcony that overlooks the parade ring and the racecourse, offering panoramic views of the entire course.
Facilities
The Grandstand has a range of facilities that cater to the needs of racegoers. There are several bars and restaurants that offer a variety of food and drink options. The Tote Pavilion is located on the ground floor of the Grandstand and provides easy access to betting facilities.
Toilets are provided at the side of the Grandstand and in the Tote Pavilion. There is also a banking cash facility available in the Administration Office. The Grandstand is fully accessible and has facilities for disabled racegoers.
Overall, the Grandstand at Sligo Racecourse is a modern and well-equipped facility that offers excellent views of the racecourse and a range of facilities for racegoers.
Conclusion
Sligo racecourse is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who enjoy horse racing. The course has been hosting races since 1955 and has become a prominent venue for both National Hunt and flat racing.
One of the unique features of Sligo racecourse is its slightly uphill run-in, which makes for an exciting finish to the races. The course is also known for its tricky, undulating, right-handed track with sharp bends, making it a challenging course for both horses and jockeys.
Visitors to Sligo racecourse can enjoy great hospitality and knowledgeable crowds, creating a cracking atmosphere. The course is situated in the shadows of beautiful Irish mountains, adding to the scenic views and making it a must-visit destination for racing enthusiasts.
Joseph Murphy, a successful Irish horse trainer, has had many wins at Sligo racecourse over the years, making him a prominent figure in the racing community. With a one-mile circuit and both jumps and Flat racing, Sligo racecourse has something for everyone.
Overall, Sligo racecourse is a fantastic destination for those who love horse racing and are looking for a unique and challenging course to visit.
