Eyes on the Prize As That Prize Guy Signs Punchestown Sponsorship

Media Release Tuesday 27^th January: Punchestown Racecourse today announced That Prize Guy, the UK’s leading competition and prize platform, as the sponsor of the upcoming Bank holiday Monday race day on 2nd February.

The That Prize Guy Race Day will take place on 2nd February 2026, the final day of a blockbuster jumps racing weekend following the Dublin Racing Festival on Saturday and Sunday. The day’s action includes the PP Hogan Cross Country Chase over the famous banks course and concludes with the highly anticipated Up The Yard Challenge Race.

This is a first-of-its-kind partnership for Punchestown, bringing together the excitement of live jump racing with the innovative engagement approach of That Prize Guy. Known for creating dynamic competitions and interactive online experiences, That Prize Guy now joins forces with Punchestown to add a fresh dimension to a day at the races.

That Prize Guy, based in Northern Ireland, offers competitions open to everyone across the UK and Ireland. Participants have the chance to win amazing prizes at a low cost, with entry fees starting from 1p. Since launching over six years ago, That Prize Guy has given out more than £200M in prizes, raised hundreds of thousands for charities, and supported numerous local businesses.

Paul at That Prize Guy, said:
“Partnering with Punchestown is a unique opportunity. We’re excited to bring new energy to the day and create a different kind of experience for racing fans through our competitions and activations.”

Leona Hughes, Sponsorship at Punchestown, added:
“This sponsorship is something fresh and new for the Punchestown season.  That Prize Guy shares our focus on innovation and engagement, and together we’re delivering a Bank Holiday Monday that will stand out on the racing calendar.”

With this partnership, Bank Holiday Monday at Punchestown promises an exciting conclusion to the February bank holiday weekend, featuring thrilling racing, vibrant atmospheres, and engaging competitions both on and off the track.

For more information on That Prize Guy and their platform, visit: www.thatprizeguy.co.uk

Punchestown Racecourse is delighted to announce 1xBet as the new title sponsor of the €100,000 1xBet Grand National Trial, which will take place on Sunday 15th February 2026.
The Grand National Trial has gone from strength to strength in recent seasons and has firmly established itself as one of the most important staying chases in the Irish National Hunt calendar. In 2024, the race underwent a significant transformation with its promotion to Listed status and an increase in prize money to €100,000, a move that elevated its standing and enhanced its appeal to owners, trainers and jockeys alike.

The 2026 1xBet Grand National Trial will once again be the feature race on a high-quality seven-race card at Punchestown. Its mid-February slot makes it an ideal stepping stone for connections seeking a searching test of stamina, jumping and class ahead of the major staying handicaps later in the season.

The partnership marks an exciting new chapter for the racing scene, drawing on 1xBet’s global expertise in the iGaming industry. 1xBet Ireland operates legally under a state regulatory licence and is steadily strengthening its presence in the local market. The brand is rapidly expanding its footprint and actively supporting sports in Ireland. Its platform provides all the essential betting tools for responsible gaming, allowing users to assess statistics and participants’ current form.

Additionally, 1xBet Ireland produces informative articles reviewing the favourites in the season’s major races and the most interesting betting markets.

Commenting on the announcement, a spokesperson for 1xBet said:  “We are proud to become the title sponsor of the 1xBet Grand National Trial at Punchestown. This race has developed into one of the standout staying chases of the season and its Listed status reflects its quality and importance. We look forward to working with Punchestown and supporting a race that plays such a key role on the road to the spring’s premier Jump Racing contests.”

Leona Hughes, Sponsorship at Punchestown, added: “The Grand National Trial has evolved into a flagship race for us and we are delighted to welcome 1xBet as our new title sponsor. Their support allows us to continue building on the progress made in recent years and to further enhance the profile of this important Listed contest. We look forward to another exciting renewal on Sunday 15th February 2026.”

Tickets for the 2026 1xBet Grand National Trial will be available in advance, with prices starting from €15. The first race is scheduled for 2.10pm (subject to change). For tickets, hospitality options and full event details, visit www.punchestown.com.

You can also follow 1xBet horse racing live online where the brand’s platform offers detailed statistics for all participants and a wide selection of betting markets, making the viewing experience even more engaging and allowing you to immerse yourself in the event’s atmosphere. Alternatively, check out The Final Furlong Podcast on www.youtube.com/@FinalFurlongPodcast or Apple podcasts, Spotify and all major podcast platforms.
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Punchestown Celebrates 175 Years and Racecourse of The Year Award with a Free New Year’s Eve Race Meeting

Kindly Supported by Tote

Media Release, 17 December 2025 — Punchestown Racecourse will celebrate a remarkable 175 years of racing heritage with a very special New Year’s Eve race meeting, offering free admission for all, generously supported by Tote, on Wednesday, 31 December. The anniversary is all the more poignant as the track recently landed the 2025 Racecourse of The Year Award.

The Kildare Races at Punchestown was first recorded in 1824, the event moved to various venues across the county before officially establishing Punchestown as their permanent home in 1850. From those early beginnings has grown into what is now internationally recognised as the Punchestown Festival — a five-day celebration of top-class horse racing, culture and community spirit.

To honour this rich legacy, Punchestown is inviting everyone to come together on New Year’s Eve to celebrate 175 years of memorable sporting, historic and community moments. From the construction of the first ever grandstand, the role played by the La Touche Family, the endurance through civil and world wars right up to the famous Match Race of 1986, the legacy of so many racing dynasties and the dominance of Irish racing talent. Punchestown has played host to so many iconic occasions through the years.

The New Year’s Eve meeting promises a festive and family-friendly atmosphere, with complimentary mince pies and mulled wine on arrival while stocks last, live music by the Ballymore Band and free children’s entertainment.

Gates open from 11am with the first race going to post at approximately 12.30pm. The Hay Café, The Feedroom and a selection of mobile eateries will provide tasty snacks, barista coffee or delicious full hot food menu with something for everyone whilst the bars will be serving up festive cheer!

For those looking to enhance their day and arrange something a bit special this New Year’s Eve, the very popular Trackside Race & Dine package is available to book online for €95pp with children’s menu available.

Conor O’Neill, Punchestown CEO, looked ahead to the special day: “This New Year’s Eve meeting is about celebrating our past, enjoying the present, and welcoming the future together. Thanks to Tote for their generous sponsorship which allows us to invite everyone to race for FREE. O’Neill continued: We are merely custodians of this special place and everything we do here is to safeguard Punchestown for future generations.”

*ENDS*

What: Punchestown 175th Anniversary New Year’s Eve Race Meeting
Where: Punchestown Racecourse, W91 VCX4
When: Tuesday, 31 December
Gates Open: 11.00am
First Race: Approx. 12.30pm
Admission: FREE for all

TRM Equine Nutrition Salute Stable Staff with Punchestown Season Best Turned Out Series

Media Release Monday 13th October 2025: As the jump racing season gets underway the skill, dedication and professionalism of Ireland’s stable staff will be in the spotlight as TRM Equine Nutrition, a global leader in equine supplements, partners with Punchestown Racecourse to launch the ‘Saddled In Style’ Best Turned Out Series for the 2025/2026 jumps season.
The series will run across all 20 fixtures at Punchestown between October and June, including the five-day Punchestown Festival in April. At each fixture, the Best Turned Out award of each race will earn points toward the season-long leaderboard, with the overall winning yard crowned at the final meeting on Sunday 7th June 2026.
Thanks to TRM Nutrition, the winning yard will receive a €1,000 TRM voucher, TRM-branded gear and a celebratory breakfast morning delivered to their stables, recognising the exceptional work of the teams who care for and present horses at the highest standards.

TRM is a global brand trusted in over 90 countries, providing world-class nutritional supplements and healthcare products for racehorses, sport horses and a wide range of performance and leisure horses. Despite its international reach, TRM remains proudly rooted in their county Kildare base. Punchestown staff who visited the Newbridge factory were impressed by the cutting-edge systems in place to guarantee the quality, integrity, and quantity of every product leaving the facility. TRM also adapts its products and branding for each jurisdiction it enters, ensuring local relevance while maintaining global standards.

Enda Kelly, TRM Chief Commercial Officer, said: TRM are thrilled to team up with Punchestown for the forthcoming season. National hunt racing, breeding and its heritage are a huge part of our core business dating back over 35 years of TRM’s history, and it is a wonderful opportunity to give something small back through this innovative sponsorship”.

Janet Creighton of Punchestown also added: “Punchestown has always valued the massive contribution made by stable staff. The annual Up The Yard Stud & Stable Staff Race is now established as a firm favourite and a highlight of the season. The TRM Best Turned Out Series now extends that recognition across all fixtures, rewarding the teams whose work is essential to Irish racing.”
The Punchestown season gets underway on Tuesday 14th and Wednesday 15th October before rolling on to the early season highlight of The Premiere Weekend on 22nd and 23rd November.

FULL LEADERBOARD

The 2025 Punchestown Festival Five Day Celebration Gets Underway Tuesday 29 April

MEDIA RELEASE – 28th April 2025 – The grand finale of an unforgettable jump racing season takes centre stage as the 2025 Punchestown Festival kicks off Tuesday 29th April and runs until Saturday 3rd May at the iconic Punchestown Racecourse, Co. Kildare.

Organisers are anticipating over 100,000 visitors across five spectacular days, with festival fans traveling from across Ireland, the UK, Italy, United States and even Australia to be part of this world-class celebration of sport and culture at the home of Irish jump racing.

Racing Ahead with Thrilling Clashes and Visiting Raiders

Across 40 races, featuring 12 Grade 1 contests and €3.5 million in prize money, the Punchestown Festival once again delivers the very best in jump racing. All indications are that major showdowns are guaranteed with old rivals, young pretenders and redemption missions on the cards. The opening day features a massive clash between Cheltenham heroes Marine Nationale and J.P. McManus’s Fact To File. The Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup will see superstar Galopin Des Champs take on a challenge from the impressive Spillane’s Tower whilst Friday’s Boodles Champion Hurdle is being billed as the race of the season with Constitution Hill confirmed to meet State Man and Golden Ace amongst others.

Headlining the action is an incredible line-up of training and riding talent including the unstoppable Irish and recently crowned British champion trainer Willie Mullins along with his son, Grand National winning rider Patrick Mullins, champion jockey elect Paul Townend, top trainers Gordon Elliott and Henry de Bromhead, Cheltenham Gold Cup winning trainer Gavin Cromwell and the ever popular Rachael Blackmore among those in action.

What is particularly evident at entry stage is the significant increase in UK trained runners at the festival with numbers returning to the heights last seen in 2008. Festival friends and regulars Nicky Henderson, Paul Nicholls, Jonjo O’Neill, Harry Derham and Anthony Honeyball are joined by new names and faces to sustain the visitor involvement for the future. The UK contribution is integral to the festival as it not only generates vastly increased interest and TV viewer numbers from across the Irish sea but also each horse running brings with them owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms and associated entourages that require accommodation, hospitality and entertainment in the locality. Over 20% of the festival attendance hail from outside of Ireland so the event is a major contributor to the Kildare tourism numbers and campaign.

The track team have prepared, mowed, aerated, fed and watered over 170 acres of racing ground or the equivalent of around 42 Croke Park pitches. The main team of five men have crafted 330 metres of hand filled steeplechase fence, 180 sections of handmade hurdles and erected just under 10 kilometres of white racing rail all to provide what is essentially a fresh race track each of the five days

New For Punchestown 25

In 2025, the Punchestown team rolls out four key innovations based on customer feedback and trial runs:
• Earlier start times of 2.30pm have been rolled out across the week with the exception of Friday that remains at 3.40pm.
• The revamped Festival layout and entertainment programme, removing reserved enclosure barriers and improving flow, was very well received in 2024 so this along with further enhancements and improvements are in place for 2025.
• Ticket Price Freeze: Prices were reduced last year with discounts for those that book in advance of festival week. Generous concessions remain for senior, student and family (Saturday) and free entry for children under 14 throughout the week.
• Friday Remote Drop & Collect Bus Service to address the changes in transport habits, Naas racecourse and Killashee Hotel are the two off-site drop and collect points on Festival Friday. From 12 noon. Free out and €5 cash back. Full transport services available on www.punchestown.com

Festival Social Scene

Like all great celebrations the Punchestown party will feature great live music throughout the enclosures with Spring Break playing floor fillers for the first three days and exciting new DJ performances planned for Friday and Saturday evenings.

17,000 hospitality guests from 806 companies (including 164 from the UK) will enjoy delicious seasonal menus crafted by a 68-strong team of chefs, supported by over 760 hospitality staff. Three and a half tonnes of fresh vegetables, 60 kilos of artisan cheeses, and 15,000 exquisite canapés and desserts will be served across the five days. A team of almost 300 bar staff will pour an estimated 132,000 pints, measure 20,000 shorts and fill 8,000 champagne glasses.

Style lovers will once again flock to the Bollinger Best Dressed Competition, open to all, taking place over the first four days and culminating in the grand final on Ladies Day, Friday 2nd May. Fresh for 2025 is the sustainable theme of Something Old/Something New focusing on conscious fashion choices. New to the Style Council judges are multi-award winning sustainable designer Aoife McNamara and acclaimed stylist Isabel Gleeson.

Further additions include the Bollinger Concierge marquee where Kildare-based beauty brand Ayu will have a host of professional make-up artists offering make-up top-up and professional advice. Vision Ireland will have specially curated rails of pre-loved designer garments to showcase just how stylish sustainable fashion can be.

People Make Punchestown – Community & Charity

Beyond the track, Punchestown plays a vital role in the local community where the Festival contributes over €60 million annually. What is considered the most important race of the festival because it makes the biggest difference is the Punchestown Kidney Research Fund Charity race and in it’s 34th year of running is on target to break the €2,000,000 fundraising mark.

At the centre of the festival is community and at the centre of community is family and the GAA. We are delighted to continue our great association with Naas, Eadestown and Ballymore Eustace GAA clubs who steward the track, fences, hurdles, and horse crossing areas throughout the site in return for club funding.

In a landmark collaboration, Punchestown Racecourse, Aramark, Ireland’s leading food services provider and St. Kevin’s Community College in Dunlavin have joined forces to launch Elevate 2025 – a pioneering Transition Year (TY) programme that combines community involvement, real-world skills training, and local pride. Following a five week training programme, 70 St. Kevins College transition year students will be employed by Aramark for paid work experience at the upcoming Punchestown Festival.

Each year a number of national charities are joined by local schools in the official bucket collection campaign. This year we are proud to welcome Down Syndrome Ireland, St. Corban’s National School, St. Brigid’s Hospice and The Samaratin’s and wish them the very best in their fund raising endeavours.

Punchestown CEO Conor O’Neill said:

“There is something really special about the buzz ahead of this year’s Punchestown Festival. It’s even more than the brilliant achievements by our horses, jockeys, owners and trainers throughout the season. It’s the local and national enthusiasm and pride that are reflected not only in bookings and sales but in requests for information, signage, enquiries about how they get involved. People Make Punchestown and there is a great appetite and goodwill for the event this year even more than previous. Combine this with a forecast that we can only wish for and we are in for a magic week. See you at Punchestown!”

The 2025 Punchestown Festival takes place from Tuesday 29th April to Saturday 3rd May at Punchestown Racecourse. Tickets and full information available at www.punchestown.com.

ENDS

DAR Golf Construction Announced as Official Sponsor at Punchestown Festival

• Widening of the finishing straight by approx. 35 metres
• Drainage system includes 27,000 linear metes of sand slits, 3,500meters of piped drainage and 1,500meters of main carrier drains
• Repositioning and increased capacity to the water reservoir in front of the Grandstand
• Improve and grade the bend into the straight (not impacting on existing racing ground)
• Installation of a service road on the inside of the newly widened finishing straight
• Upgrade to the track crossing after the finishing line
• 80,000 tonnes of subsoil have been moved to facilitate the widening of the finishing straight (this ground has been raised by approx. 4 meters in places)
• 27,000sq meters of new track racing surface merged to the existing finishing straight
• Completion and lining of a new water reservoir (capacity will increase from 9,000m3 to 12,500m3)

• Phase 2: Blackhills Extension: A 650-metre extension at the Blackhills bend is underway, enabling greater flexibility in race distances and start locations while enhancing the overall racing programme.

Lawlor’s of Naas Strengthen Historic Ties with Punchestown Upgrade

Punchestown Racecourse is proud to announce the expansion of its partnership with Lawlor’s of Naas, an establishment synonymous with race day hospitality. Building on a longstanding legacy spanning more than 112 years, Lawlor’s has elevated its support as sponsor of one of the most competitive races the week – the €100,000 Lawlor’s Of Naas Listed Handicap Hurdle on Festival Saturday, May 3rd.

Lawlors Hotel is a cornerstone in the hospitality aspect of the festival. With over 20% of the attendance travelling from the UK and beyond, where racegoers begin and end their Punchestown race day experience has become paramount. With a proven track record of excellence spanning back to 1913 when founder Bridget Lawlor was appointed official caterer at the racecourse the association between the two Kildare landmarks has been a positive one to say the least.

Racegoers and residents can expect excellent food and beverage offering both before and after racing each day with live entertainment each evening. The festival shuttle bus service departs opposite the hotel front door making it a very convenient choice.

Lawlor’s boasts an unbeatable location in the centre of Naas town and has grown to become a flagship Kildare hotel having undergone a multi-million euro redevelopment. Additions include Vi’s Restaurant and iconic round bar, a 360 person capacity ballroom, the Glending Suite for groups of up to 250, a decorative private garden, increased capacity to 138 bedrooms and a underground car park for 120 cars.

Dee Nix, General Manager at Lawlor’s of Naas, spoke to the importance of the moment:

“The Punchestown Festival is a flagship event on our calendar, and our connection with it is woven into our heritage. Enhancing our support is not just a milestone—it’s a celebration of shared values between Lawlors and Punchestown – excellence in hospitality, community, and tradition. We’re honoured to be part of something so special and look forward to welcoming friends old and new through the doors in a few days time.”

Janet Creighton, representing Punchestown Sponsorship, added: 

“The legacy between Lawlors and Punchestown is unique and long-standing, and this new level of support is a reflection of their commitment to this tradition. It is so important to us that visitors have as great a time outside the racecourse gates as they do inside. With Jack Tierney, Dee Nix, and the entire Lawlor’s team we know that they are in the best of care”

The 2025 Punchestown Festival takes place from Tuesday 29th April to Saturday 3rd May. Full event information and ticket sales available on www.punchestown.com

Champions coming home as PUNCHESTOWN FESTIVAL GRADE 1 ENTRIES unveiled

Galopin Des Champs faces elite opposition, Gordon Elliott looks forward to a Tea party and Russell considers beefing up British raiding party

Galopin Des Champs is in line to face one of the deepest fields in the history of the LADBROKES PUNCHESTOWN GOLD CUP and that is just one of the reasons to get excited as entries for Punchestown Festival’s dozen Grade 1 contests are released today.
The cream of the crop look to bring the curtain down on another stellar season for Irish racing, with all the Cheltenham champions targeting a coveted double and a wonderful cast of ultra talented rivals attempting to spoil the party at the Kildare venue, which opens to the masses of horse lovers and revellers from Tuesday, April 30th to Saturday, May 4th.
The pulsating action that ends the jumping year represents another opportunity to marvel at the genius of the peerless Willie Mullins and his team at Closutton. The maestro is currently leading the race to to become the first Irish-based jumps trainer to be British champion since Vincent O’Brien made it two-in-a-row in 1954.
But Punchestown is his happy place and he has signalled his intent to send the usual strong team to the jamboree which will have added intrigue as Paul Townend attempts to stave off the sustained challenge of Jack Kennedy, who is bidding to become champion jockey for the first time.
Gordon Elliott’s support has been the foundation of Kennedy’s bid and he will be doing everything he can to help the Dingle pilot get over the line.
Henry de Bromhead and Gavin Cromwell are other big-time operators seeking to add to the positive memory bank of Punchestown but smaller scale firms such as those run by Martin Brassil, Jimmy Mangan and Tom Gibney have already bloodied the nose of their higher profile colleagues this year and will be looking to do just the same in Grade 1 fare to draw bring an unforgettable campaign to a memorable conclusion.
Nicky Henderson and Paul Nicholls are familiar cross-channel names with entries, while Anthony Honeyball is an annual visitor to Punchestown who has saddled winners in the last three years and will be going all out to make it four.
The Full Circle Series, a new initiative targeting mid-level hurdlers, has attracted significant support from British trainers, with the likes of Ben Pauling, Tom Lacey and Charlie Longsdon sending runners.
The possibility of some of Lucinda Russell’s string making the journey is a mouth-watering one, with Corach Rambler and Ahoy Senor among her potential representatives in the LADBROKES PUNCHESTOWN GOLD CUP.

LADBROKES PUNCHESTOWN GOLD CUP
(Wednesday, May 1st – 22 entries)

Galopin Des Champs heads the Cheltenham 1-2-3 for the Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup, while there are numerous other dangerous rivals, including the eight-year-old’s Punchestown nemesis Fastorslow.
The Mullins-trained, Audrey Turley-owned Galopin Des Champs elevated his reputation by joining the rare group of horses to go back-to-back in the Cheltenham Gold Cup last month. The Timos gelding was electric once more at Prestbury Park but had his colours lowered in this race last year by Fastorslow when attempting to emulate Sizing John’s 2017 feat of registering the Irish, Cheltenham and Punchestown Gold Cup treble.
It is on again and Fastorslow resumes rivalries, representing long-time Punchestown supporters Seán and Bernardine Mulryan of the Ballymore Group, as well as expert conditioner Martin Brassil.
Their pride and joy also got the better of Galopin Des Champs at this track in the John Durkan Memorial last October but unseated JJ Slevin while still travelling well at Cheltenham, albeit they were still a long way from home.
There are no worries about the Mullins star’s liking for the Kildare venue, as he is a dual winner at the track, including at the 2021 festival.
Lucinda Russell has entered Corach Rambler, who finished third at Cheltenham but fell at the first when looking to win a second Grand National in succession at Aintree on Saturday. Also in the mix for the Scottish handler is Ahoy Senor, who ran a cracker when getting within a half-length of Gerri Colombe in the Bowl on Merseyside.
Grand National winner I Am Maximus is among six entries for Mullins, while Hewick would be a very popular winner for ‘Shark’ Hanlon and TJ McDonald, with the globetrotting King George VI Chase winner a lively contender should he line up.
Gordon Elliott has five entries. They are Gerri Colombe, who followed up his gutsy runner-up finish with that Aintree triumph, Grand National runner-up Delta Work, fourth-place Aintree finisher Galvin, dual Grade 1 winning chaser Conflated and Galway Plate winner Ash Tree Meadow.
That trio have probably run their last races of the season, Elliott reports and with Conflated preferring to go left-handed, that leaves one potential representative.
“Ash Tree Meadow is very versatile in terms of trip,” said Elliott. “We have him in the William Hill Champion Chase as well so we’ll keep an open mind on that and see what way the ground is looking. But I would imagine he will take up one of the engagements.”
Nicky Henderson, who has enjoyed so much success over the years at Punchestown, has reported that this race is definitely a potential target for Shishkin, with Bravemansgame, who finished third in a thrilling finish last year, entered by Paul Nicholls.

BOODLES CHAMPION HURDLE
(Friday, May 3rd – 7 entries)

State Man loves it at Punchestown, where he has won four times, adding two Morgiana Hurdles to a brace of festival successes, including in last year’s Boodles Champion Hurdle. Marie Donnelly’s nine-time Grade 1 winner arrives in Punchestown this year as champion of his division and his nearest rival at Cheltenham, Irish Point is likely to attempt to reverse that result.
“Irish Point also has the option for running in the Ladbrokes Champion Stayers’ Hurdle. He ran very well in the Champion Hurdle so this has to be in the mix for him again,” Elliott declared.
“With Teahupoo, Sire Du Berlais and Beacon Edge for the Stayers’, we might just be looking at this more to split them up. And given he ran so well in Cheltenham, you’d be keen to try Irish Point at two miles again.”
State Man is one of four Willie Mullins entries, with dramatic Aintree Hurdle victor Impaire Et Passe, a Punchestown Festival winner last year, among them. Lossiemouth would certainly be an interesting runner but the Mares’ Hurdle hero is probably more likely to display her wares in Saturday’s Coolmore Irish EBF Champion Hurdle confined to her gender.
Bob Olinger is another possible rival. He has been reinvigorated this year and after chasing home State Man at the Dublin Racing Festival, was an unlucky loser at Aintree, touched off just a nose by Impaire Et Passe.

LADBROKES CHAMPION STAYERS’ HURDLE
(Thursday, May 2nd – 19 entries)

Teahupoo has long been touted as a staying star and Robcour’s relentless galloper has been handled expertly by Gordon Elliott to justify favouritism in beating the best of his division last month.
That was only his second run of the season, having debuted in garnering the Hatton’s Grace at Fairyhouse in December. He was beaten only three lengths in third by Klassical Dream last year but is a fresher horse this term, as well as a more mature one.
“Teahupoo is in great order and this would look the logical step for him. We didn’t go to Liverpool with the intention of going here and it’s all systems go now for Punchestown. Everything has gone smoothly since Cheltenham and we’re pleased with him.
“Beacon Edge will probably go too. Sire Du Berlais missed Liverpool but the plan is sign off for the season with him here.”
Buddy One followed up his Cheltenham fourth by finishing second at Aintree and would be a very popular winner for the Gilligan family, while the reliable Home By The Lee could get the green light by Joseph O’Brien.
Former Grand National winner Noble Yeats, who won the Cleeve Hurdle earlier this year, has been given an entry while Champ (Nicky Henderson) and Dashel Drasher (Jeremy Scott) are the possible cross-channel contestants.

WILLIAM HILL CHAMPION CHASE
(Tuesday, April 30th – 12 entries)

This is traditionally one of the most thrilling spectacles of the week and Henry de Bromhead is aiming to let Captain Guinness make his bid for double glory, after the consistent gelding finally laid his Grade 1 bogey at Prestbury Park.
Nicky Henderson has said that Jonbon could very well take him on, given that the eight-year-old missed Cheltenham and illustrated his well being by winning the Melling Chase over two and a half miles.
El Fabiolo would be on a retrieval mission for Mullins and the Munir/Souede ownership team after fluffing his lines when odds-on at Cheltenham.
“I think we’ll go here with Fil Dor,” Elliott stated. “He ran creditably at Cheltenham and Fairyhouse, both times maybe shaping a little better than the bare result and maybe looking like a horse that might appreciate coming back to this trip.”

BALLYMORE CHAMPION FOUR-YEAR-OLD HURDLE
(Saturday, May 4th – 16 entries)

Sir Gino is the star of the juvenile category after his Cheltenham and Aintree successes. He has been given the option of travelling to Kildare by Nicky Henderson where he would face some high calibre opposition were he to make the trip.
Bottler’secret is a very inexperienced but clearly talented individual that sauntered to Grade 2 victory for Gavin Cromwell at Fairyhouse, having blitzed the opposition when only making his hurdling debut at Naas in February.
Immutable would be a very interesting runner for Joe Murphy, while Willie Mullins is heavily represented as usual, his squad headed by the amazingly consistent Kargese. Nurburgring missed Aintree and would be a leading contender for Joseph O’Brien, while Kalif Du Berlais, who chased home Bottler’secret in Fairyhouse, could be sent back to Ireland by Paul Nicholls.
Kala Conti hasn’t run since finishing a close fifth to Kargese at the Dublin Racing Festival, but beat Kenny Alexander’s filly prior to that.

TUESDAY, APRIL 30 – ADDITIONAL GRADE 1 RACES

There are 22 entries for the KPMG CHAMPION NOVICE HURDLE with Henry de Bromhead’s Slade Steel, owned by the all-conquering Robcour, the double chaser in the two-mile novice hurdling division.
Willie Mullins has pencilled in the contest as a possibility for 16 charges, including Ballyburn, who won over the intermediate trip at Cheltenham and may be more likely to line up in the Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle on Friday.
Mystical Power was reeled in by Slade Steel up the straight at Cheltenham but the son of Annie Power went one better in Grade 1 competition at Aintree on Saturday.
Gordon Elliott has a number of options, including Firefox, who beat Ballyburn in their maiden hurdle and has been placed at both Cheltenham and Aintree, latterly behind Mystical Power.
“I wouldn’t rule out Firefox running,” said Elliott. “He wasn’t that busy from his maiden hurdle through to Cheltenham. He had just the one run. He progressed from his Cheltenham run to run really well in Aintree. We’ll see how he is after that and we’ll let the horse tell us.
“I’d imagine King Of Kingsfield will go here. He’s a horse that does like nice ground and was probably undone by the soft ground in Cheltenham. We skipped Aintree then on account of the ground so this is very much a target.”
The DOOLEYS INSURANCE GROUP CHAMPION NOVICE CHASE has attracted 19 entries. Emmet Mullins won it last year with Feronily and facile National Hunt Chase victor, Corbetts Cross would be an intriguing runner were he to take his place, having finished a close-up third in the Aintree Bowl against the senior Grade 1 chasers.
Nick Rockett, Tactical Move and Embassy Gardens are among the entries for Willie Mullins, while Inothewayurthinkin, who followed up success in the Kim Muir with a comfortable Grade 1 triumph at Aintree on Saturday, would be a real contender for Gavin Cromwell and owner JP McManus.
Irish Grand National hero Intense Raffles could be asked to step up to top-flight fare by Tom Gibney, while Spillane’s Tower reminded everyone of the supreme skills of Conna trainer Jimmy Mangan, when scoring in Grade 1 company at Fairyhouse.
Henry de Bromhead-trained Brown Advisory runner-up, Monty’s Star would bring the Cheltenham form, which Elliott will hope can be turned over.
“American Mike will run. He just didn’t fire at Cheltenham but he is a talented horse. He beat Fact Or File earlier in the season. He showed a really good attitude to win the Ten Up in February. The plan after Cheltenham was to come here and that’s what we’ll do.
“Salvador Ziggy didn’t fire either at Cheltenham. We’ll see with him. He’s a possible runner but he does want good ground.
“Three Card Brag has had an interrupted season but is a very nice horse. So I wouldn’t be averse to letting him take his chance.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1 – ADDITIONAL GRADE 1 RACES

Willie Mullins could saddle two Grade 1 winning novices, Dancing City and Readin Tommy Wrong, who are among his 16 entrants in the CHANNOR REAL ESTATE GROUP NOVICE HURDLE.
There are 28 entries in total but it is Gordon Elliott who is likely to saddle the favourite in Stellar Story, as the Gigginstown House Stud owned galloper destroyed a strong field to win the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham by seven and a half lengths.
“Stellar Story came out of Cheltenham in good shape. The plan then was to come here and he is very much on the ticket. He always looked like he’d make into a good staying novice. While he didn’t run up to his best at Dublin Racing Festival, at Cheltenham, he showed what he was capable of.
“We were very happy with Staffordshire Knot’s run in Aintree behind Brighterdaysahead. He looked like a horse who’d relish stepping up to three miles so I’d say he’ll run as well.
“Three miles is certainly Search For Glory’s thing so it’s quite likely he could turn up here. Better Days Ahead has the option of running in this or the Alanna Homes Champion Novice Hurdle. It was the intention to go to Punchestown after Cheltenham with him and that’s still the plan. He’s pretty versatile trip-wise. He won the Martin Pipe over two and a half but has very good form at two miles as well.”
Cullentra House will make a bold bid for honours in the RACE & STAY AT PUNCHESTOWN INH FLAT RACE, which has 22 entries. Closutton’s Jasmin De Vaux will be attempting the double but Elliot saddled the runner-up, third and sixth in the Champion Bumper and Romeo Coolio, Jalon D’oudairies and The Yellow Clay are among the darts he could throw at this Grade 1.
“They’re all young horses of course but they acquitted themselves really well at Cheltenham and this seems the next logical step for them,” said Elliott. “Their future is all in front of them and we’ll see how they are in the next couple of weeks but we would expect to have a strong representation.”
Fergal O’Brien has entered his exciting Aintree runner-up Tripoli Flyer, while Barry Connell’s facile Naas victor, William Munny would be a fascinating contender having swerved the British festivals.

THURSDAY, MAY 2 – ADDITIONAL GRADE 1 RACES

The BARBERSTOWN CASTLE NOVICE CHASE has a lucky 13 possible runners with the Susannah Ricci owned Gaelic Warrior heading the baker’s dozen after his impressive Arkle Chase triumph. Given his preference for running right-handed, he should be very difficult to beat though Willie Mullins might also saddle Blood Destiny, who seems best at the minimum trip.
Philip Rothwell has put his improving chaser Captains Nephew into the mix, and Con O’Keeffe has given his admirable mare, Silent Approach the option.

FRIDAY, MAY 3 – ADDITIONAL GRADE 1 RACES

A whopping tally of 35 horses are under consideration for the ALANNA HOMES CHAMPION NOVICE HURDLE. Ballyburn is the standout. Ronnie Bartlett’s exciting six-year-old won the Gallagher at Cheltenham by 13 lengths after having subsequent Supreme winner, Slade Steel seven lengths back at the Dublin Racing Festival in Leopardstown.
Jeriko Du Reponet and Jingko Blue could be given the office by Nicky Henderson, while Caldwell Potter, formerly trained by Gordon Elliott, has an entry from Paul Nicholls. Elliott will certainly be represented.
The aforementioned Firefox and Better Days Ahead have this as an option.

SATURDAY, MAY 4 – ADDITIONAL GRADE 1 RACES

There are 22 entries for the COOLMORE IRISH EBF MARES’ CHAMPION HURDLE. Cheltenham heroine, Lossiemouth is the standout, with Telmesomethinggirl, Lantry Lady and Hispanic Moon all potential opposition having run brilliantly at Prestbury Park for Henry de Bromhead.

Saturday 8th February 2025: As we prepare for the 2025 QuinnBet Grand National Trial, Punchestown Racecourse and QuinnBet are excited to reflect on the significant advancements made in the previous year. In 2024, the race underwent a major transformation, with a substantial increase in its prize fund to €100,000 and the coveted promotion to Listed status—a move that has solidified the race’s position as a premier event in the Irish Jumps Racing calendar.

The 2025 edition of the QuinnBet Grand National Trial, set to take place at Punchestown on Sunday 16th February, will continue to benefit from these enhancements. The race remains the marquee event of a high-caliber seven-race card, and the increased prize money and upgraded status have only added to its importance as a key preparation race for both the Irish and UK Grand Nationals.

In 2024, under the third year of its sponsorship agreement, the QuinnBet Grand National Trial has drawn a competitive field, highlighting the significance of the event. Two former winners are among this year’s exciting entries, with the 2024 victor Where It All Began and 2023 winner Coko Beach leading the charge in a competitive field of 32. Their inclusion adds a thrilling element of familiarity and anticipation to this year’s contest, reminding us of the race’s history and its ability to attract top-class talent.

For those seeking an exciting each-way opportunity on Easter Monday, look no further than this time-honoured trial. Known for its ability to unearth future stars, the QuinnBet-sponsored Trial has long been regarded as the perfect starting point for those eyeing bigger targets down the line. In 2024, it proved to be a crucial piece of the puzzle, with three of the top six finishers emerging from this prestigious event, reinforcing its status as an invaluable indicator of form and potential.

Reflecting on last year’s success, Niall McPartland, QuinnBet’s Head of Sponsorship & Commercial, commented, “We were delighted to see the QuinnBet Grand National Trial elevated to Listed status and the increased prize fund bringing in such a strong field in 2024. As we enter the third year of our partnership, we are proud to continue supporting Punchestown, the heart of Irish jumps racing. We look forward to another thrilling renewal and extend our thanks to Horse Racing Ireland and Leona Hughes for their invaluable support.”

Leona Hughes, Sponsorship at Punchestown, also shared her excitement: “It’s been a privilege to work alongside QuinnBet as we’ve watched this race flourish. The €100,000 prize fund and Listed status have truly elevated the event, and we are eager to build on last year’s success. We look forward to welcoming a lovely crowd for what promises to be an unforgettable day of racing.”

Tickets for the 2025 event are now available, starting at just €15. The first race is set to begin at 2.10pm (subject to minor changes). For more information on tickets, hospitality, and event details, visit www.punchestown.com.

ENDS

About QuinnBet

Founded in 2017, QuinnBet has swiftly established itself as a major player in the iGaming sector, providing a licensed online sports betting and casino platform for customers across the UK and Ireland. For more information, visit www.quinnbet.com.

For further details, please contact:
Manuela Bologheanu
Head of Brand and PR, QuinnBet
Email: Manuela.bologheanu@quinnbet.com

Kilkea Castle Hotel and Golf Resort Announced as New Punchestown Accommodation Partner.

MEDIA RELEASE Tuesday 21^st January: As the business end of the jump racing season gathers pace, Punchestown Racecourse today announced that Kilkea Catle Hotel and Golf Resort are to join the sponsorship and accommodation portfolio at the home of Irish jump racing.

The Kilkea Castle Hotel & Golf Resort Maiden Hurdle on 16^th February will kickstart the campaign to establish this beautiful historic property as a leading choice for the horse racing community not only for the upcoming Punchestown Festival but throughout the year. Conveniently located in the heartland of racing country and within thirty minutes of Punchestown and an hour of Dublin, the 180-acre estate is an ideal home from home.

Aidan O’Sullivan, General Manager at Kilkea Castle, looked ahead to this partnership at Punchestown: “The Kilkea and Punchestown teams share a vision for this partnership and it is to create an exceptional and memorable overall experience for visitors.  A day at the Punchestown races is a special occasion and should begin and end with excellent hospitality, food, transfers to the track and super customer service in beautiful surroundings. This is where Kilkea Castle aims to meet and exceed expectations to establish ourselves as a leading choice for the racing community”.

With a history dating back to 1180, Kilkea Castle was once the medieval stronghold of the FitzGerald’s, Earls of Kildare and is one of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles. The family owned and managed resort has 140 bedrooms including original castle rooms and resort lodges provide options for a variety of group sizes and budgets.   A challenging 18-hole championship golf course, excellent spa and delicious culinary offerings allow for a tailored racing and relaxation experience.

Welcoming the historic resort to the accommodation  panel, Punchestown’s Janet Creighton said: “We are so pleased to welcome Kilkea Castle as an hotel partner because we know that when we recommend this property to clients not only will they will be impressed with the stunning setting, history and heritage but beyond that, the Kilkea team will deliver an excellent level of service and look after the Punchestown visitors so well.

Kilkea Castle Hotel and Golf Resort are now taking bookings for the 2025 Punchestown Festival and beyond. The team are happy to tailor packages to include transfers, golf and spa packages, after racing dining options and group bookings. Please visit www.kilkeacastle.ie for the best value rates or call us on 059 9145600.

The 2025 Punchestown Festival runs from Tuesday 29th April to Saturday 3rd May. For full event details, season fixtures and ticket options please visit www.Punchestown.com

**ENDS**