Tramore Racecourse is a well-known horse racing venue located in the town of Tramore, County Waterford, Ireland. The course is known for its right-handed track on a 7-furlong circuit and is a Grade Two racecourse that stages both National Hunt and Flat racing. Racing in Tramore has a long history, with the sport taking place on the beach as early as 1785.
Tramore Racecourse is a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts, with many visitors coming from all over Ireland and beyond to attend the races. The course is easily accessible by road, rail, and bus, making it a convenient location for those looking to attend. The four-day August Festival is a highlight of the racing calendar, offering a range of exciting events and activities for visitors to enjoy.
History of Tramore Racecourse
Founding of the Racecourse
Tramore Racecourse is a horse racing venue located in Tramore, County Waterford, Ireland. The racecourse has a rich history that dates back to 1785 when horse racing took place on the beach. The races continued on the beach until 1911 when the racecourse was built, and it opened the following year. In 1997, a private consortium bought Tramore Racecourse, and it has since undergone significant renovations to improve its facilities.
Significant Races and Events
Tramore Racecourse is a Grade Two racecourse and is known for its right-handed track on a 7-furlong (1400m) circuit. The racecourse stages both National Hunt and Flat racing, and it hosts several notable races throughout the year. Some of the significant races held at Tramore Racecourse include the Tramore Racecourse Directors Handicap Hurdle, the Tramore Racecourse Maiden Hurdle, and the Tramore Racecourse Maiden Hurdle.
In addition to these races, Tramore Racecourse is known for hosting several events throughout the year, including the annual Tramore Racecourse Ladies Day. This event is a highlight of the racing calendar and attracts thousands of visitors to the racecourse.
Notable Horses and Jockeys
Over the years, Tramore Racecourse has been home to several notable horses and jockeys. One of the most famous horses to race at Tramore Racecourse was Dawn Run, who won the Tramore Racecourse Maiden Hurdle in 1983 before going on to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Champion Hurdle.
Several jockeys have also made a name for themselves at Tramore Racecourse, including Ruby Walsh, who has ridden several winners at the racecourse. Another notable jockey is Paul Townend, who has had great success at Tramore Racecourse, riding 26 winners at a 36% strike rate during the five seasons from 2015-16 to 2019-20.
In conclusion, Tramore Racecourse has a rich history, and it continues to be an important venue for horse racing in Ireland. With its Grade Two status, notable races and events, and a history of hosting some of the best horses and jockeys in the sport, Tramore Racecourse is a must-visit destination for racing enthusiasts.
Facilities at Tramore Racecourse
Grandstand and Hospitality Options
Tramore Racecourse offers various grandstand and hospitality options for guests. The grandstand provides excellent views of the racetrack, and guests can choose between indoor and outdoor seating. The hospitality options include private suites, restaurants, and bars, which offer a range of food and drink options. The private suites are perfect for corporate events or special occasions, and they offer a luxurious and exclusive experience for guests.
Betting and Tote Facilities
Tramore Racecourse provides a range of betting and tote facilities for guests. The racecourse has several bookmakers on site, and guests can also place bets using the Tote system. The Tote system offers a range of betting options, including win, place, and each-way bets. Guests can also use the self-service terminals to place their bets.
Food and Drink Options
Tramore Racecourse offers a range of food and drink options for guests. The racecourse has several restaurants, bars, and food outlets on site, which offer a variety of cuisines and beverages. The restaurants offer a more formal dining experience, while the bars and food outlets provide a more casual atmosphere. Guests can choose from a range of dishes, including traditional Irish cuisine, seafood, and international dishes.
Children’s Entertainment
Tramore Racecourse provides various entertainment options for children. The racecourse has a playground and bouncy castle, which are perfect for younger children. There are also several activities and games available, including face painting and balloon modelling. The racecourse also hosts family days, which provide additional entertainment for children, including magic shows and puppet shows. Overall, Tramore Racecourse provides excellent facilities for guests, including grandstand and hospitality options, betting and tote facilities, food and drink options, and children’s entertainment.
Getting to Tramore Racecourse
By Car
Tramore Racecourse is located in the town of Tramore, County Waterford, and is easily accessible by road. If you are travelling from Waterford, it is just a 13km drive to the racecourse. From Cork, it is approximately a 2-hour drive, from Dublin it is a 2.5-hour drive, and from Galway, it is a 3.5-hour drive.
If you are travelling from Dublin, take the M7 southbound and then the M9 towards Waterford. From there, take the N25 towards Cork and follow the signs to Tramore Racecourse. If you are travelling from Cork, take the N25 towards Waterford and follow the signs to Tramore Racecourse.
There is ample parking available at the racecourse, and parking is free.
By Public Transport
If you are travelling to Tramore Racecourse by public transport, the nearest train station is Waterford Train Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the racecourse. Bus Eireann operates a regular bus service from Waterford to Tramore, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes.
If you are travelling from Dublin, there are regular train services from Dublin Heuston Station to Waterford Train Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the racecourse.
For more information on public transport options, visit the Bus Eireann website or Irish Rail website.
Tips for Attending Tramore Races
What to Wear
Tramore Races is a popular event, and you’ll want to dress appropriately for the occasion. While there’s no strict dress code, it’s recommended that you dress smartly. For men, a shirt and tie or a smart polo shirt with trousers or chinos is appropriate. Women can wear dresses or skirts with blouses or smart tops. It’s also advisable to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet for most of the day.
It’s also worth noting that the weather in Ireland can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to bring a jacket or coat, even if it’s sunny when you set out for the races.
Race Day Schedule
The gates at Tramore Racecourse usually open two hours before the first race of the day. It’s recommended that you arrive early to avoid the crowds and get a good spot to watch the races. The first race usually starts at 2 pm, and there are usually six or seven races on the day’s card.
It’s a good idea to plan your day in advance, so you don’t miss any of the races you want to see. You can find the race schedule on the Tramore Racecourse website, and it’s also available in the racecard on the day.
There are plenty of food and drink options available at the racecourse, so you don’t need to worry about packing a picnic. However, if you prefer to bring your own food and drink, you’re allowed to bring a small picnic with you.
After the last race, there’s usually live music or entertainment in the bar area, so you can continue the fun into the evening.
Conclusion
Tramore Racecourse is a popular destination for both tourists and racing fans alike. With its right-handed track on a 7 furlong (1400m) circuit, it is known for its National Hunt and Flat racing events. The Grade Two racecourse is located in the beachside town of Tramore, just 12km west of the city of Waterford.
The 4-day mid-August festival is the biggest event at this course, where the turf meets the surf. It has everything a summer racing festival should have: sun (usually), sea, sand, spectacular racing and anything else that takes your fancy on a hot summers day. Many people come to Tramore not just for the races, but also for the surfing and water sports opportunities offered by the large enclosed and sheltered bay.
Tramore is a right-handed, undulating, round track that is about seven and a half furlongs in length. Many of the turns are sharp and it is a track that many horses patently fail to act around. The straight is a little over a furlong in length and is on an incline.
It is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in horse racing or looking for a fun day out with friends or family. Overall, Tramore Racecourse is a great destination for anyone who loves horse racing or is looking for a fun day out. With its stunning location, exciting events, and friendly atmosphere, it is sure to be a hit with visitors of all ages.