Racing action begins this Sunday in Cleveragh
A bumper season of racing is set to begin this weekend as the first meeting of the new Sligo Races season begins.
Sunday is a 7-card National Hunt Fixtures and the theme for the season opener is Peaky Blinders so expect plenty of tweet, flat caps and old-fashioned style in keeping with the hit tv show.
The first race gets underway at 1:40pm with gates opening at 12pm.
Punters are advised to come early as big crowds are expected for the season opener.
There will be prizes for best dressed male and female.
Kathryn Foley, Racecourse Manager said everyone is looking forward to the new season.
She added: “Unlike the start of racing in 2017, the track is in good condition.
“It stood up very well over the winter months despite heavy rainfall.
“We had a better Spring this year and with the improvement of the track it is in great condition for racing.
“Sunday’s meeting is a 7 Card National Hunt fixture. The feature race on day is The Kennedy’s Bar Sligo Rated Novice Hurdle of €20,500. In total there is approx. €94,000 in prize money up for grabs. The First Race starts at 1.40 pm. Gates open 12 noon.
“There is also a huge social aspect to the day with a Peaky Blinder theme. It is envisaged that many of our race goers will be dressing for the occasion especially as there are prizes going for the Best Dressed Male and Female.
“Just over two weeks later on 22nd May we have a 7 Card Flat Meeting and the theme on that day is Rugby. We are delighted to invite Sligo Rugby to the Racecourse especially after a victorious Season.
“Other notable dates for your calendars is Family Day on Sunday 15th July and Ladies Day on August 9th. This year’s Ladies Day is going to be a spectacular event with a Pre-Ladies Launch Night in the Glasshouse hotel on the evening of Thursday May 31st.
“This will comprise a fashion show with compere Marietta Doran of TV3 fame presenting ladies fashion from our local Ladies Stores and shown by professional models on the evening. Here is an opportunity to preview the magnificent style available in our local stores and perhaps choose an outfit that you can wear on Ladies Day at Sligo Races. The entire evening is free and everyone is welcome attend.
“Another date worth noting on our racing calendar is Students Day on Thursday 27h September.
“This is one of the most exciting days at the racecourse and we look forward to welcoming the students of Sligo IT and St Angela’s college once again.
“Sponsorship this year is very positive, with a number of new sponsors coming on board, and we are very grateful for the great support we get from all our sponsors,” Kathryn added.
The Sligo Races calendar; Sunday 6th May
Belfry Day with Peaky Blinders Tuesday 22nd May
Rugby Day
Tuesday 19th June
Active Retirement
Sunday 15th July
Family Day Wednesday 8th August Farmers Day
Thursday 9th August
Ladies Day
Tuesday 21stAugust
Diego Day
Thursday 27th September Students Day.