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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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

"I've always wanted to go to Punchestown."

🤑If we'd get a penny for every time we hear that on our visits to the UK we'd be minted!

🏇Racing at Punchestown is hassle-free, great value and super fun. Trips from just £240pp.

🗺️Download our guide: https://t.co/yZVaV4QSQi pic.twitter.com/8ezMF6XQNT

— Punchestown (@punchestownrace) December 15, 2022

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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Killarney Racing - Staying At The Killarney Park Hotel

Wow just Wow! Killarney Racecourse is a thing of beauty. pic.twitter.com/XSxLVt0WhY

— Gleneagles (@Glen_Colt) May 16, 2016

Killarney is a picturesque town located in County Kerry, Ireland, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. One of the town's most popular attractions is the Killarney racecourse, situated in the heart of the Killarney mountains. The racecourse is not only a haven for horse racing enthusiasts but also for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Killarney racecourse is a historic venue that has been in existence for over 80 years. It hosts some of the most prestigious horse racing events in Ireland, including the August Festival, which attracts racing enthusiasts from all over the world. The festival comprises several days of thrilling races, fashion competitions, and live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere that is both fun and exhilarating.

However, Killarney racecourse is not only about horse racing. The venue is also a popular location for conferences, trade shows, and other events. It offers excellent facilities, including a grandstand that can accommodate up to 12,000 people, VIP boxes, restaurants, bars, and private suites.

But what makes Killarney racecourse truly unique is its location. The racecourse is nestled in the heart of the Killarney mountains, providing visitors with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape. The Killarney mountains are part of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks range and are home to Ireland's highest peak, Carrauntoohil. The mountains are also home to several lakes, including the famous Lakes of Killarney, which are some of Ireland's most photographed natural wonders.

Visitors to Killarney racecourse can explore the mountains through several activities such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding. The Killarney National Park is also nearby, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature and learn about Ireland's rich flora and fauna.

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When it comes to accommodation, Killarney offers an array of options that cater to different budgets and preferences. However, the best hotel to stay in when visiting the racecourse and the Killarney mountains is the Killarney Park Hotel.

The Killarney Park Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Killarney town, just a short distance from the racecourse. The hotel boasts 67 elegantly furnished rooms and suites, all equipped with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious bedding.

The hotel also features excellent dining options, including the award-winning The Peregrine Restaurant, which serves a range of local and international dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Garden Bar and Terrace is the perfect place to unwind after a day at the races, offering guests an extensive selection of wines, beers, and cocktails, as well as a light bar menu.

In addition to its luxurious amenities, the Killarney Park Hotel is renowned for its exceptional customer service. The hotel's staff is highly trained and dedicated to providing guests with a personalized and memorable experience.

In conclusion, Killarney racecourse is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable experience surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The racecourse's location in the heart of the Killarney mountains makes it a perfect base for exploring the area's natural wonders. And when it comes to accommodation, the Killarney Park Hotel is the ideal choice, offering luxurious amenities, excellent dining options, and exceptional customer service.

Irish Racecourses: Tramore

Tramore Racecourse, a.k.a. Waterford & Tramore Racecourse is situated on the northern outskirts of the seaside town of Tramore, in Co. Waterford, in southeast Ireland, less than a mile from the town centre. Please be aware you won't find real money baccarat here. Tramore Racecourse plays host to eleven days racing, under both codes, between January and October, but is best known for its four-day August Festival, which includes three National Hunt fixtures, usually on a Thursday evening, Friday evening and Sunday afternoon, and a Flat fixture on the intervening Saturday afternoon. 

Aside from the August Festival, the most notable fixture at Tramore is that staged on New Year’s Day, which features the Listed Savills Chase, worth €30,000 in added prize money. In a particularly classy renewal in 2019, Willie Mullins saddled a 1-2-3, headed by Al Boum Photo, in the Savills Chase. 

The steeplechase course at Tramore is a right-handed, undulating oval, approximately seven furlongs in circumference, with five, easy fences to a circuit and a run-in of less than a furlong. If you love casino bonuses take a look at this website. Heading away from the stands, the course climbs, but falls again for a long, downhill run to the second-last fence, followed by a short, uphill finish. The turns are sharp, favouring horses that race prominently, and the idiosyncratic nature of the course often gives rise to course specialists. 

Similar comments apply to the flat course, although the absence of starting stalls can an additional complication for the horse – and jockeys, for that matter – with little or no experience of flag starts. On the whole, well-balanced horses with plenty of tactical pace far best at Tramore, although when the going is on the soft side, it is possible for hold-up horses to come from on the pace. Nevertheless, the tightness of the course simply does not suit some horses at all, and even those who do act on the course must be intelligently ridden if they are to prevail.

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Irish Racecourses: Clonmel

A treble on the card for trainer @gelliott_racing as Womalko justifies favouritism in the Next Meeting Thursday January 12th Novice Handicap Chase under a strong ride from Sam Ewing in the silks of JP McManus 🏆 pic.twitter.com/aeBtEoYXJI

— ClonmelRaces (@ClonmelR) December 8, 2022

Clonmel is the largest town in County Tipperary, Ireland. 

It name means ''honey meadow or honey vale'' most likely related to the richness of the soil in this fertile location. This town in the province of Munster has a rich history noted for its resistance against the Cromwellian army (1649 - 53). Oliver Cromwell led the forces of the English Parliament. 

The town lies on the northern bank of the River Suir, flowing from Tipperary to Waterford. It's source coming from Devil's Bit Mountain situated in the Comeragh Mountains.  

The Census of Clonmel in 2016 detailed a population of 17,140.     

St Mary's Church remains one of the architectural features of the town, built in the 14th century.  

The annual Clonmel Junction Festival (from the first weekend of July, lasting nine days) is very popular. It features several international acts.

Powerstown Park is the horse racing venue for Clonmel Racecourse, two miles from the town centre. Public transport via train is available to Clonmel station.

The nearest airport in under thirty miles away at Waterford. 

It hosts both Flat and National Hunt racing. Horse racing dates back to 1913. The course often has over 120 horses running at each meeting. 

It was refurbished in 1998. 

Flat Racing:

Clonmel is a right handed oval of 1 and a 1/4 miles with a run in of 2 and a 1/2 furlongs, with an uphill finish. 

National Hunt Racing:

Clonmel is a right handed oval of 1 and a 1/4 miles with a run in of 2 and a 1/2 furlongs, with an uphill finish. There are six hurdles and seven jumps on this circuit. 


Contact details: 

Clonmel Racecourse 
Davis Road 
Clonmel 
County Tipperary
Ireland 

Tel: 353 52 72481
Fax: 353 52 26446

Website: http://www.clonmelraces.ie/  

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Elliott’s Magical Day at Navan

2021 will probably be a year that Gordon Elliott wants to forget. After all, the trainer spent most of the last 12 months under suspension and only managed to get his season going in September. But while he will still face an uphill reputation to rebuild his personal reputation in the media, Elliott can at least look at the success his horses have had in recent weeks and believe he has picked up from where he left off. In fact, the evidence on show at Navan Racecourse on 4th December suggests he might be in an even stronger position. 

Fans at “The Christmas Party Raceday” at Navan saw the first event go off at 11.30 am, with the familiar name of Willie Mullins as winning trainer. However, in the subsequent seven races, Elliott took over with seven winners. It was historic, to say the least. No trainer has ever won seven races on a card before in Ireland. Previously, Elliott and Mullins both had recorded six in one day. 

Seven from Eight for Elliott 

So, who led Elliott to glory? His first win was a mild shock, with The Goffer coming in at 10/1 in the maiden hurdle. The favourite, Fantasio D’Alene, was also trained by Elliott but fell at the 8th. Next up was Ginto (11/8), who promptly took the Grade 2 Navan Novice Hurdle with Jamie Codd in the saddle. A 40/1 shot, Commander of the Fleet, took the Bective Stud Handicap Hurdle. Next, the red-hot 1/4 favourite Riviere D’etal left all trailing in its wake in the Grade 3 Klairon Davis Novice Chase. Farouk D’alene came home next at 7/2 in the Navan Beginners Chase. In the penultimate race of the day, another favourite, Conflated, came in at 9/4. Finally, Jamie Codd wrapped up a great day for Elliott with victory on Itswhatunitesus in the flat race. 

The total odds for the Elliott seven-time were 37,382/1, according to The Sun. Obviously, there were some parallels drawn with Frankie Dettori’s seven winnners at Ascot in 1996. That feat came in somewhere around 25,000/1. It was such a rare event that people are still talking about it 25 years later. There’s even a casino slot, Frankie Dettori’s Magic Seven, which celebrates the event. So, will be talking about Elliott’s magnificent seven in 25 years? It probably won’t be held in the same regard, even if it is a feat that seems unrepeatable. 

Elliott Will See Pathway to Redemption

For a start, this felt more about a question of what comes next for Elliott than an event in and of itself. The trainer’s comments afterward had all suggested that he saw it as a vindication of his talents after spending a long time in the wilderness. It’s understandable that he was relieved to see the media report on something positive regarding the trainer after the controversy that has dogged since the publication of those photos in early 2021. 

Looking forward, Elliott will see success as the best remedy to rebuild his reputation. And, if he keeps training winners, the media will have no choice to focus on that success. The incredible events at Navan will fortify his reputation as one of the best jumps trainers of the 21st century. Elliott will hope that is the main focus of 2022 as he targets big prizes at Cheltenham and beyond.