The craic will most definitely be 90 at the Ballinrobe Races on Monday evening next, August 8, as the 90th anniversary of racing in Ballinrobe is celebrated.
From its humble beginnings in 1921, Ballinrobe Racecourse has grown to be one of the leading tracks in Ireland. Its location, modern facilities, and high standards in every sense has struck a chord with racing enthusiasts that has seen the Mayo track place its name high up on the racing calendar.
To celebrate 90 years of racing at Ballinrobe, race goers are in for a host of exciting treats on Monday.
The first paying 90 customers into the track will receive a free €10 bet with the on-course bookmakers. Monday is also Mad Hatters Day, which has a prize fund of €1,000 sponsored by www.thefashionshed.com Paula Rabbitte of www.thefashionshed.com and Alan Murphy of Galway Bay FM will be judging the most quirky and creative hats and outfits on display. The €1,000 prize fund includes vouchers from Shine Boutique in Claremorris, thefashionshed.com and a headpiece by Fiona Mangan Millinery with lots of other goodies thrown in.
Those with a sweet tooth are advised to be around The Pavilion to grab a slice of the huge celebratory cake.
There is a special Ballinrobe Races 90th Anniversary Hurdle, with €16,000 in prize money sponsored by the race committee.
Racecourse manager John Flannelly is looking forward to a great evening of celebrations in what is a major milestone for Ballinrobe Races. “It’s great to reach our 90th anniversary. All credit is due to the committees down through the years for their work and great foresight during difficult times. We must pay tribute to the wonderful people who first set up racing in Ballinrobe back in 1921 and thank all those who have contributed to make Ballinrobe Racecourse what it is today.”
Racing gets under way on Monday at 5.50pm (though it is worth noting that one of the races may be split into two races, which would result in a 5.20pm start ).
The McHale Engineering Maiden, The Burleigh Accountants Handicap, The Costello McDermott Maiden Hurdle, The Ballinrobe Races 90th Anniversary Hurdle, The Tim Kelly Electrical Maiden Hurdle, and The Broderick’s Electrical Handicap Hurdle are all sponsored races for Monday’s card.
