Racing History

A history of racing at Gowran Park

Gowran Park racecourse first opened its gates to the racing public on the 16th of June 1914. The race programme consisted of flat races and steeplechases under the Irish National Hunt rules of racing; the prize money at the time was 130 pounds. The stewards at that particular meeting included Lord Annaly, Capt. Dermot McCalmont (whose grandson Harry carries on the tradition by being a Director on the present-day board) and Isaac Bell the renowned Huntsman of the Kilkenny Hunt.

The present race company was formed in 1948 and its first Managing Director was Jack Duggan of the Monster House, Kilkenny. Mr. Duggan brought many innovations to Gowran Park including the Tote. The first televised race was also from Gowran Park.

The new Grandstand and its facilities were officially opened on the 9th of April 2003. The new complex, completed at a cost of 3.5 million euro is the culmination of an extensive development programme supported by Horse Racing Ireland, which commenced with the upgrading of the stable yard and parade ring areas.



In 2006 Gowran Park staged its first ever Group 3 meeting. The elevation of the Denny Cordell Lavarack and Lanwades Stud Fillies Stakes to Group 3 status highlights Gowran Park's commitment to delivering high quality flat racing.

Other notable National Hunt dates include; the long established Ellen Construction Thyestes Handicap Steeplechase valued at 100,000 euro in January, Red Mills Day in February and the October Festival.

In 2006 Gowran Park was also re-classified as Grade 1 course for National Hunt Meetings for prize money purposes. This reflects the fact that Gowran Park stages top class National Hunt racing, predominantly during the winter months.

Future developments include the upgrading of the Weigh Room area and development of the bookmakers ring.

Winners at Gowran Park include - Arkle - Refuse to Bend - Hedgehunter - Luas Line - Kicking King - Race for the Stars - Numbersixvalverde - Admiralofthefleet.

For more information on our Racing History contact Gowran Park