The roar of the punters, epic finishes, the highs and lows, all parts of the unique atmosphere that form Roscommon Races is only days away from its new season. This Monday, May 9th, sees the 2016 Season begin with the first race at 5.40 p.m.
In what has been a very busy pre-season for the race committee, all associated with the track are eagerly looking forward to a productive year. Racecourse manager Michael Finneran is delighted with the improvements made as the course continues its policy on upgrading facilities year on year: “We’re very pleased with the upgrades and we’re looking forward to the new season. A lot of people have worked behind the scenes to get things ready for 2016 and I want to thank Horse Racing Ireland, Tim Higgins, Chief Executive of Tote Ireland and of course the board and members of Roscommon Racecourse Ltd for all their wonderful efforts.”
A new Tote Building has been erected, and in the region of €185,000 has been spent on improvements at the course over the winter and spring and Michael Finneran added that the new tote building is “a marvellous development”, noting that the old building had had its day. Improvements were made on the track also, notably a further canter-down area for horses going to the start, which will greatly improve the racing surface on the day. In the jockey’s room, extra toilets and shower facilities have been provided for both male and female jockeys.
Monday’s card is made up four flat, two chases and a bumper and once again a large number of Kepak customers are expected to cheer home the winner of the Kepak Bumper. This year there is a new sponsor at this meeting with another local company, myITdepartment.ie, sponsoring the handicap chase. The Irish Stallion Farms European Breeders Fund are sponsoring two races also at this meeting and the Best Turned Out Prize in each race is sponsored by Hamrock’s Bar & Lounge, Athleague.
“The business community of Roscommon and the greater region have a long association with the course and once again they have got behind us. There are also new sponsors on board for the coming season, which we really appreciate,” said Mr. Finneran.
168 horses have been entered with final declarations being made on Sunday morning. Patrons are advised that in the event of a race divide, which has happened in the past due to a large number of entries, the first race will be an half an hour earlier. An announcement will be made by the Course in any event.
Admission is €13 for adults and €8 for OAP’s and Students. The “Ros Special” voucher priced at €30 includes admission, race card, two-course meal – served by Lydon House Catering, Galway and you’ll also receive a €10 betting voucher. To round off the evening there’ll be music in the Main Bar after the second last race by The Usual Suspects.
Deals are available on group bookings, for more information contact Michael on 087 2203288 or email [email protected]