All weather racing at Dundalk© Photo Healy Racing
Horse Racing Ireland has announced that it is seeking expressions of interest from existing racecourses and prospective new venues in relation to the development of a second all-weather track in Ireland.
The announcement follows a decision taken by the Board of HRI at their meeting last Monday and forms part of a strategic ambition to grow participation levels and opportunities in the Irish racing industry.
Horse Racing Ireland CEO, Brian Kavanagh said:
“Dundalk has proven the demand for a high quality all-weather racing product and has played a vital role in sustaining the racing industry and employment in flat yards throughout the winter months. It has also served as a shop window for our breeding industry with strong international demand for horses with proven ability.
“It came across clearly in our consultations and public roadshows last year that there was a demand from the industry for a second all-weather facility. The Board has recognised the role which a second all-weather track can play in creating further employment and increasing opportunities for owners, horses, trainers and jockeys.
“The development of a second all-weather track in Ireland will require significant investment by the racecourse owners and by Horse Racing Ireland and, funding permitting, we would like to see one introduced by 2021. We are therefore writing to existing racecourses to gauge the levels of interest in such a proposal and inviting interested parties to come forward with their proposals for discussion and consideration.”
