Friday, 21 February 2025

I've Never Been To An Irish Racecourse

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I've never been to the Emerald Isle. 

However, I have always had an affinity with Irish folk. One of my Dad's best friends was called Jack Allen. As a youngster he lived in Waterford, southeast Ireland. There were tales he knew Johnny Logan, who won the Eurovision Song Contest twice in the 80s. 

I can honestly say Jack was one of the nicest men I have ever met. A lovely kind man who enjoyed his horse racing. His nickname was Slim. Sadly, he passed away a long time ago from a heart condition. I will never forget as a teenager sitting with my Dad, Jack Allen, Mick Keane and Dick Goult at the Lord Nelson Public House.

Sadly they have all passed since. 

I'm not sure about Dick, but Jack and Mick loved a bet. They were small-time gamblers who enjoyed a flutter every Saturday, especially free bets. We'd have a chat over a pint. I'm sure one if not both loved Guinness. Jack used to take out his false teeth to eat. He made me smile. He didn't have a bad bone in his body. I don't know about you but the older generation back in the late 80s seemed to have much more character.

If I could go back in time, I would love to ask them about Ireland. Which racecourses they attended. Thinking about it, Jack did once mention being at a racecourse and seeing a trainer trying to light a cigarette. He rushed up, gave him a light and asked: 'Do you fancy your horse in the next?' He must have caught the trainer on a good day and he gave him the nod.

The horse won. 

I know a lot of punters talk about the Punchestown Festival. 

One of the racing people I chat with Tom, always sings the praises of going racing in Ireland. 

However, if there is one place I would love to go, as much for the scenery as the racing, is Killarney. What a stunning location. I have scoured that place on Google maps and just love it even though I haven't set foot on ground. I will try to get there in the next few years. My mate Jerry Banks is going with one of his friends so I was a bit envious when he said. I almost said: 'I will go too.'

Perhaps I will. 

I guess it's strange why more people don't visit Ireland. My mum went to Dublin a couple of times but said it was very expensive. I can't say that would be a destination I'd visit. I like a quiet laid back approach rather than city life. Give me some good company, a scenic pub, with a cold pint on a summer's day.  

Dad passed away in 1998. It seems a long time ago and I guess it is in ways. None of us are getting any younger. Father Time stops for no man. And that's why it is important to live for today and make plans for tomorrow. My father worked much too hard. He never went to the races enough. Never went fishing enough. Never had enough time to stop and enjoy. It disappoints me to this day that he passed away at the age of 62. 

I have lots of lovely memories of my brother and I going to Great Yarmouth races with Dad. We'd get off the train and walk to the course and back. That's a long walk but it was lovely to chat about the day ahead and reflect on the day gone by. To be fair, Dad had some good winners at the course.  

It's all too easy to forget those days. To somehow think less about those special moment with the hustle and bustle of life. 

As long as we say their names my Dad, Colin, will transcend life. I'm sure Dad, Jack, Mick and Dick are looking down and saying: 'Enjoy your life. Make the most of it. Appreciate the good, kind and loving people around you. Smile. Laugh. Enjoy those beautiful days at the races and think of us on the way home.'

Without doubt I will. 

Love to all. 


Photo: Freepik

Sunday, 12 January 2025

Irish Racecourses: Fairyhouse


Fairyhouse Racecourse, billed as “Home of the Irish Grand National”, is situated near the town of Ratoath in Co. Meath, in eastern Ireland, approximately 14 miles north of Dublin. Fairyhouse stages Flat and National Hunt fixtures – a total of twenty – all year ‘round, but is better known for the latter, in particular, the Easter Festival, which features two of the most important races in the Irish National Hunt calendar, the Ryanair Gold Cup and the Boylesports Irish Grand National. 

 The Irish Grand National, run over 3 miles 5 furlongs, was inaugurated in 1870 and, although a handicap, its roll of honour since World War II includes such luminaries as Arkle, Flyingbolt and Desert Orchid, as well as Aintree Grand National winners Rhyme ‘N’ Reason, Bobbyjo and Numbersixvalverde. Elsewhere in the National Hunt calendar, the two-day Winter Festival staged in early December, has also risen to prominence in recent years. Day two of the Winter Festival features three Grade One contests, the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, Royal Bond Novice Hurdle and Drinmore Novice Chase. 

 The steeplechase course at Fairyhouse is a right-handed square, a mile and three quarters in length, with eleven, unforgiving fences to a circuit. Notwithstanding the stiffness of the fences, the course is wide, galloping in nature and does not, generally, favour one type of horse over another. Heading away from the stands, the course rises, before falling in the back straight and rising again in the home straight, which includes a run-in of about a furlong. The undulations are gentle, though, so the course does not present a searching test of stamina and, aside from usual luck in running, horses do not, necessarily, need to be in the right place at the right time to win. 

 On the flat, Fairyhouse plays host to just one Pattern race, the Group Three Brownstown Stakes, run over 7 furlongs, in July each year. Formerly staged at Leopardstown, the Brownston Stakes was transferred to Fairyhouse in 2009 and, since then, its roll of honour has included the likes of Emulous Fiesolana, who both went on to win the Group One Matron Stakes at Leopardstown. 

 Unsurprisingly, the flat course shares many of the characteristics of the steeplechase course and is, on the whole, fair to all types of horses. However, horses that like to race on, or close, to the pace typically fare best at Fairyhouse; hold-up horses, especially those drawn low, on the far side, in races over six or seven furlongs, may find themselves short of room next to the rail in the home straight, in which case luck in running is important.

A Day Out at Fairyhouse Racecourse




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Thursday, 5 December 2024

Irish Racecourses: Cork

In the province of Munster, Cork is the largest southernmost county of Ireland. It is Ireland's second largest county with a population of over 500,000 people. 

 Cork boarders four counties: Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary & Waterford. It contains the Golden Vale pastureland with West Cork one of the major tourist destinations, especially its rugged coastline and megalithic monuments. You can see very different sites at real money online casinos. The county has mountain ranges, the highest point being Knockboy (706m) on the Shehy Mountains which border Kerry and accessed from Priest's Leap.      

 Cork has an impressive coastline with beaches and sea cliffs and peninsulas including Beara, Sheep's Head, Mizen Head and Brow Head. The latter being the most southerly point of mainland Ireland. There are many islands off Cork coast including Fastness Rock which lies in the Atlantic Ocean about seven miles from the mainland.

 Cork Racecourse Mallow - because it is held at Mallow, County Cork) stages both Flat and National Hunt racing fixtures. 

 It is located just over 20 miles north of Cork and about 40 miles from Limerick. 
The first steeplechase - between to churches steeples, from Buttervant to Donerail - took place in 1752, down the road from Mallow. Something of a modern era real money casino games. Cork Park was lost in 1917 but in 1924 racing at Cork commenced under the control of Lieutenant Colonel F F MacCabe. 

 Following a £7 million refurbishment, the racecourse re-opened in 1997.

 The three-day Easter Festival is the highlight of Cork Racecourses' sporting calendar.

 Contact details:

 Cork Racecourse (Mallow) Ltd
Mallow
Cork 
Ireland


Tel: 353 22 50210/50207
Fax: 353 22 50213 

 The racecourse is located 1 mile from Mallow town. Mallow is accessible by bus or train from Dublin. Stop at Cork for Mallow. Best get a taxi from Mallow Station to the racecourse. 

 The nearest airport is Cork, which is 4 miles away from the course.  

 Flat racing:

 Cork is a right-handed level track with an inner course of 10 furlongs. The outer circuit is 12 furlongs. There is a draw advantage on sprints for high number. However, over 7f it pays to be dawn low. There is no real advantage over one mile although stall one seems to do well.  

 National Hunt racing:  

 Cork is a right-handed level track with an inner course of 10 furlongs. The outer circuit is 12 furlongs. There are eight jumps per circuit with three in the home straight. 

Website: http://www.corkracecourse.ie/

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Saturday, 2 November 2024

Irish Racecourses: Galway

Galway Racecourse, also known as Ballybrit Racecourse, is situated in the village of Ballybrit in Co. Galway, in the West of Ireland, less than four miles northeast of Galway city centre. The racecourse stages just three meetings or, in other words, just twelve days racing, each year, but is synonymous with the Galway Races Summer Festival, one of the most celebrated race meetings in the world. 

 Staged over seven days in late July and early August, such that it coincides with the August Bank Holiday in Ireland, the Summer Festival features an eclectic mixture of moderate, but dog-eat-dog, Flat and National Hunt racing. Very much like online casino australia for real money. That said, the two feature races of the week, the Galway Hurdle and the Galway Plate, are worth €300,000 and €250,000 in prize money, respectively, so they typically attract numerically strong, top-class fields, with capable contenders from both sides of the Irish Sea. Aside from the Summer Festival, Galway Racecourse also stages a three-day meeting in September and a two-day meeting in October, which coincides with the October Bank Holiday. 

 The steeplechase course at Galway is a right-handed, undulating diamond, just over a mile and a quarter in length, with seven, moderately stiff fences to a circuit and a two-furlong, uphill run-in. The hurdle course, which is situated inside the steeplechase course, is sharper in character, with six hurdles to a circuit and a shorter run-in, of just over a furlong. 

 Heading away from the stands, the course rises to its highest point before falling sharply towards the home turn, but the final climb to the winning post is probably the stiffest in the whole country. It's a start reminder that online casino us is a different gamble altogether. Jockeys, naturally, allow their horses to ‘freewheel’ down the hill but, on the steeplechase course, the last two fences come in quick succession and the second-last, in particular, often catches out horses carrying too much momentum. Galway is a deceptively difficult course to jump around, and to ride, so it is no surprise that course specialists – horses and jockeys – emerge. 
Similar comments apply on the level; Galway is on the turn almost throughout and, despite the stiff finish, unless the going is heavy, tends to favour horses that are ridden prominently. Consequently, races are typically run at an end-to-end gallop, so Galway is no place for horses with stamina concerns. A low draw, next to the far side rail, may prove advantageous over seven furlongs or a mile. However, in large fields, which are commonplace, hold-up horses may have difficulty threading their way through weakening horses, from off the pace, on what is a tight enough course in any case. As over hurdles and fences, course specialists abound.

Loving The Atmosphere at Galway Races


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Saturday, 1 June 2024

Horsepower and Hops: Ireland's Most Scenic Racecourses and Their Traditional Pub Neighbours

Horsepower and Hops: Ireland's Most Scenic Racecourses and Their Traditional Pub Neighbours
Ireland, the Emerald Isle, is renowned for its lush landscapes, storied history, and rich cultural traditions. Among these traditions, horse racing holds a special place, intertwining the natural beauty of the countryside with the thrill of the sport. Complementing this experience, Ireland's traditional pubs offer the perfect end to an exhilarating day at the races, providing a cozy setting to unwind with a pint of Guinness or a warming whiskey. Here, we explore some of the most scenic Irish racecourses and the charming pubs nearby that complete the quintessential Irish experience.

The Curragh Racecourse and Hartes of Kildare: 

Located in County Kildare, the Curragh Racecourse is steeped in history and surrounded by the breathtaking Curragh Plains. This premier racecourse is home to many of Ireland’s classic flat races, including the Irish Derby. The expansive green plains and undulating hills offer a picturesque backdrop that captivates racegoers.

Just a short drive away, Hartes of Kildare in the town of Kildare is the perfect spot to soak in the local ambiance after a day at the races. This traditional pub combines rustic charm with modern comforts, offering a menu that highlights local produce and an impressive selection of craft beers and spirits. The warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.


Galway Racecourse and O’Connell’s Bar:

Perched on the edge of the vibrant city of Galway, the Galway Racecourse, also known as Ballybrit, is famed for its lively summer festival that attracts thousands from around the globe. The racecourse's setting is idyllic, with views stretching over Galway Bay and the rugged Connemara landscape, creating a unique and exhilarating racing environment.

After the excitement of the races, a visit to O’Connell’s Bar in the heart of Galway City is a must. This historic pub, dating back to the 19th century, boasts a traditional decor with cozy snugs and a large beer garden. Known for its authentic atmosphere and extensive whiskey collection, O’Connell’s is the perfect place to enjoy the vibrant nightlife that Galway is known for.

Killarney Racecourse and The Laurels Pub:

Killarney Racecourse, set in the stunning County Kerry, offers one of the most scenic racing experiences in the world. Nestled between the magnificent Lakes of Killarney and the towering MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range, the racecourse provides breathtaking views that enhance the excitement of the races.

The Laurels Pub, located in Killarney town, is a short distance from the racecourse and is renowned for its lively atmosphere and traditional Irish music sessions. With its wood-paneled walls, roaring fireplaces, and hearty menu featuring local favorites, The Laurels is an ideal spot to relax and relive the day’s highlights over a few drinks.

Leopardstown Racecourse and Johnnie Fox’s Pub:

Leopardstown Racecourse, situated just outside Dublin, is one of Ireland's premier racing venues, offering a blend of high-class racing and stunning surroundings. The Dublin Mountains provide a scenic backdrop to the modern facilities and well-maintained tracks, making it a favorite among racing enthusiasts.

A trip to Leopardstown would be incomplete without a visit to Johnnie Fox’s Pub, one of Ireland’s oldest and most famous pubs. Located in the picturesque village of Glencullen, this pub is known for its traditional Irish fare, live music, and unique atmosphere. The cozy interior, filled with antiques and memorabilia, along with the breathtaking views from its mountain perch, makes Johnnie Fox’s a memorable end to a day at the races.

Conclusion:

Ireland's racecourses are not just venues for thrilling horse races; they are gateways to some of the country's most scenic landscapes and cultural treasures. Pairing a day at the races with an evening in a traditional Irish pub provides an authentic and unforgettable experience, blending the best of Ireland’s natural beauty, vibrant social scene, and deep-rooted traditions. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or a casual traveler, these racecourses and their neighboring pubs offer a perfect slice of Irish life.

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Thursday, 23 May 2024

Hedging Exotic Bets Against All Odds

Having a solid win would perhaps be better but when all bets are off, it’s common to indulge to exotic bets. Exotic bets include selecting two, three, or more horses to win or show. These are truly riskier than the usual win or place bet types. However, this kind of bet often offers bettors a more substantial return. It really can help one to recognize a meaningful profit opportunity. 

 Because of the large amount that can be won from exotic bets, most punters would usually risk less money in order to receive a greater return. To understand it better, here’s a short note about exotic bets. 

 Vertical Bets 

 Also known as intra-race bets, vertical bets allow you to predict the top finishers in one race. You’ll immediately know the different types of vertical bets since they usually end with “-cta”. These include exacta, trifecta, and superfecta. 

 Exacta refers to a wager on first two finishers or horses to finish first and second in the similar race in an accurate order. There two kinds of it, namely ice cold or straight exacta where you pick one horse to finish first and another to finish second, and exacta box where you pick two or more horses to finish either first or second, mostly in no particular order. Trifecta refers to a wager on the first three to finish in first, second and third in the similar race in no accurate order. 

 Chances are, your key horse will run third and two of your higher odds horses will run first and second, making this bet a good choice. 

 Superfecta refers to a wager on the first four to finish first, second, third and fourth in an accurate order. These are generally available for only 10 cents. Although it's difficult to hit a straight superfecta bet, still, it's known to be one of those bets on the racetracks in which you can win a thousand dollar for a single buck. 

 Horizontal bets 

 Horizontal bets or multi-race bets, from the term itself, allow you to pick the winner of many straight races. These bets are also known as “Pick X”, where x stands for the number of races, for example, the Pick 3, Pick 4 or Pick 6. 

 Keep on mind that you should keep on checking what the minimum bet is at the track you’re playing at, especially when playing Pick 4s. A few progressive tracks have lessened the minimum on bets to as less as 50 cents. This might be a good chance for you to cut your cost and buy more combinations. 

 Purchasing More than one Combination

 Most of the time, you might almost purchase more than one combination when doing exotic betting. For example, if you’re playing a Pick 3, you can pick two horses in each of the first two races and three horses in the third. 

 Say, you liked numbers 1 and 3 during the first race, numbers 1 and 4 during the second race, and numbers 5, 6 and 7 during the third race. If this is the case, you would more likely buy a ticket of “1,3/1,4/5,6,7” or “1 and 3 WITH 1 and 4 WITH 5, 6 and 7.” 

 Then, you’ll be having and purchasing 121 combinations, which are 1/1/5, 3/1/5, 1/1/6, 3/1/6, 1/1/7, 3/1/7, 1/4/5, 3/4/5, 1/4/6, 3/4/6, 1/4/7, 3/4/7. If each costs a buck, then you have a total of $12 dollar investment. 

 The good thing happens now when you win the Pick Three, wherein you might get back a $20 to a boxcar of $1000 just only for your $12. If either one of your picks in the first two legs wins, you’ll go to the third race with three “live” horses. Then, if one of them wins, you’ll the Pick Three. 

 Takeaway 

 Hedging your bets is one of those betting strategies that includes placing bets on a different result to your original bet to secure a guaranteed profit regardless of the outcome, or reduce your risk on a market. 

 Also, sign up in an online betting account in which you can bet Belmont Stakes conveniently. When online, you’ll typically use a betting pad where you can independently build tickets and identify what they cost, rather than inconveniencing anyone in a queue on an offline betting line.

Irish Racecourses: Punchestown

Punchestown Racecourse is situated on the outskirts of Naas, the county town of Co. Kildare, in the eastern part of the Irish Midlands. Punchestown Racecourse is, in fact, less than three-and-a-half miles from Naas Racecourse but, unlike its near neighbour, exclusively stages National Hunt racing. Punchestown hosts 17 National Hunt fixtures between April and December, with notable races including the Grade One Morgiana Hurdle, the highlight of the two-day Winter Festival, in November, and the Grade One John Durkan Memorial Chase, in December. 

  However, Punchestown is synonymous with the Irish National Hunt Festival, commonly known as the Punchestown Festival, which is staged over five days in late April and early May and brings the Irish National Hunt season to a close. That's the brilliance of Online Casinos AU open 24-hours a day. The Punchestown Festival is one of the highlights of the Irish sporting calendar and features no fewer than 12 Grade One contests, including the Champion Chase, Champion Stayers’ Hurdle, Punchestown Gold Cup and Punchestown Champion Hurdle, not to mention the fascinating La Touche Cup, run over 4 miles 1½ furlongs on the only cross-country ‘banks’ course in Ireland. 

 The main steeplechase course at Punchestown is a right-handed, undulating oval, approximately two miles in circumference, with eleven, moderately stiff, but fair, fences to a circuit and a run-in of approximately one furlong. It's so much faster to pop over to this website and enjoy casino online usa. The course is galloping in character, with a steady climb throughout the final five furlongs, which affords staying types an opportunity to find their stride. 

 The hurdle course, laid out inside the main steeplechase course, is only a mile-and-three-quarters in circumference and, consequently, much sharper in character. The bend at the end of the back straight is particularly sharp and, on the whole, the course favours horses that race handily. 

 The cross-country course consists of a twisting, turning circuit, three miles around, with left-handed and right-handed bends. Horses must negotiate a series of idiosyncratic obstacles, including banks, fences and walls, before returning to the racecourse proper and a single, regulation birch fence between them and the winning post.




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