Thurles Racecourse Revival: Securing the Future of County Tipperary racing
The world of Irish horse racing breathed a collective sigh of relief this august when Thurles Racecourse, unexpectedly shuttered on August 1st, announced its reopening. This isn’t just a continuation of racing; itS a testament to the collaborative spirit within the industry and a crucial win for County Tipperary. The future of Thurles Racecourse was uncertain, but a swift intervention by Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) and the Molony family has secured its operation through March 2026, resuming wiht its scheduled fixture on October 9th. But what led to the closure, and what does this reversal mean for the future of this historic track?
The Unexpected Closure & Industry Response
The initial declaration of Thurles’ closure sent ripples through the Irish racing community. while the Molony family, long-time owners of the venue, cited unspecified reasons, the suddenness of the decision raised concerns. The track, a staple in the National Hunt calendar, hosts a notable number of fixtures and contributes substantially to the local economy.
Did You Know? Thurles Racecourse has been a fixture in Irish racing since 1797, making it one of the oldest racecourses in Ireland.
The immediate response was decisive. HRI, alongside the association of Irish Racecourses (AIR) and the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB), swiftly engaged with the Molony family to find a solution. This collaborative approach highlights the interconnectedness of the Irish racing ecosystem and the shared commitment to preserving its heritage. According to a recent report by the Irish Examiner (September 2024), the closure was partially attributed to rising operational costs and challenges in attracting sufficient sponsorship.
Operational Shift: Horse Racing Ireland Takes the Reins
The agreement reached is a pragmatic one. HRI will assume operational responsibility for Thurles Racecourse until the end of the planned schedule in March 2026. This allows “all interested parties time to consider a longer-term plan for the racecourse,” as stated in the joint statement released by HRI and the Thurles race Company.
this temporary takeover isn’t about HRI permanently acquiring the track. It’s about ensuring continuity and stability while a lasting long-term strategy is developed. This strategy will likely involve exploring options for investment,modernization,and increased commercial viability.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on HRI’s official website (https://www.hri.ie/) for updates on the long-term planning process for Thurles racecourse.
What Does This Mean for Racing Fixtures & Stakeholders?
The resumption of racing on October 9th is a significant victory for trainers, jockeys, owners, and racegoers alike. The 11 scheduled fixtures will proceed as planned,providing valuable opportunities for competition and contributing to the vibrancy of the Irish racing calendar.
Hear’s a rapid comparison of the situation:
| Aspect | Before August 1st | After August 28th |
|---|---|---|
| Operational Control | Molony Family | Horse Racing Ireland (until March 2026) |
| race Fixtures | Suspended | Resumed, 11 fixtures scheduled |
| Long-Term Future | Uncertain | Under review, with collaborative planning |
But the impact extends beyond the track itself. Thurles Racecourse is a vital economic driver for the local community, supporting jobs in hospitality, tourism, and related industries. Its continued operation safeguards these livelihoods and reinforces County Tipperary’s reputation as a hub for horse racing. Are you planning to attend a fixture at Thurles this season?
The Bigger Picture: Challenges Facing Irish Racecourses
The Thurles situation isn’t isolated. Many Irish racecourses face similar challenges – rising costs, declining attendances, and the need for significant investment in infrastructure. The Irish Field reported in July 2024 that several smaller race
