Irish Cancer Society Official Up The Yard Beneficiary
19th Jan 2026
19th Jan 2026
Irish Cancer Society Named Beneficiary of 2026 Up The Yard Challenge Race at Punchestown
Media Release 19 January 2026: Punchestown Racecourse has confirmed that the Irish Cancer Society will be the chosen charity for the 2026 Up The Yard Challenge Race, following a collective decision by the participating riders. The charity contribution is a new initiative this year and all funds raised will go directly to supporting the Society’s vital cancer care, research and support services across Ireland.
The popular charity race for Irish stable and stud staff will take place on Bank Holiday Monday, 2nd February 2026, after the final official race on the card at Punchestown. Each of the 16 selected riders is required to raise a minimum of €500, with every euro donated benefiting the Irish Cancer Society.
Glenda Ryan, Head of Fundraising and Marketing at the Irish Cancer Society, welcomed the announcement:
“We are incredibly grateful to be chosen as the beneficiary charity for the 2026 Up The Yard Challenge Race. The commitment shown by these riders, who already work tirelessly behind the scenes of the racing industry, is truly inspiring. Every donation raised will help to fuel our vital services and our groundbreaking cancer research. The generosity of the riders and supporters at the 2026 Up The Yard Challenge Race will help us to ensure that no one in Ireland has to face cancer alone.”
Now firmly established since its launch in 2017, the Up The Yard Challenge Race was created to recognise and celebrate the riding talent within yards and studs nationwide. Many of the participants ride out daily and play an essential role in the racing and breeding industries, and the initiative offers them a rare opportunity to compete at one of Ireland’s most prestigious sporting venues.”
Punchestown Sponsorship Manager and event organiser Leona Hughes said:
“Anyone working in this industry knows the standard of horse knowledge, handling and riding talent that exists in yards and studs across the country. These people are up at dawn, producing the very best equine talent that we see on the racecourse. This race is about giving them their moment on a major stage. Choosing the Irish Cancer Society as the beneficiary adds an extra layer of meaning to what is always a very special day.”
The 2026 Up The Yard Challenge in aid of the Irish Cancer Society takes place on Monday 2nd February at Punchestown Racecourse. Full details of race riders and conditions can be found on www.punchestown.com/news-info/
**ENDS**
Anyone with questions or concerns about cancer can contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on freephone 100 200 700, or email supportline@irishcancer.ie
