Sligo opens €2 Million redevelopment

Following an extensive redevelopment project, the new facilities at Sligo Racecourse were officially opened on Tuesday August 20th.

The redevelopment represents a facilities investment of €2 million funded by Sligo Races, Sligo Race Supporters’ Club and capital development grant aid from Horse Racing Ireland

The redevelopment features a completely new grandstand, significant improvements to the weigh-room area and a brand-new entrance and contemporary reception area leading into a pavilion featuring an indoor seated section, Tote betting facilities, a bar, coffee dock and toilets.

A reception to mark the official opening was held in the new pavilion before racing, with Joe Keeling, Chairman, Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) and Brian Kavanagh, Chief Executive, HRI, performing the official opening of the new facilities.

Also present at the opening were John Maloney, Chairman, Association of Irish Racecourses and John Powell, Deputy National Hunt Steward, The Turf Club.

Brian Kavanagh, Chief Executive of HRI, said: “Sligo Racecourse is at the heart of the local community and it says much about the committee and management’s commitment to racing that they are prepared to invest in their facilities despite the difficult economic environment. We were pleased to provide extra funding through the HRI racecourse capital development fund, which has seen new and upgraded facilities at 22 of Ireland’s 26 racecourses.”

The opening was attended by racing industry officials, sponsors, directors past and present and members of Sligo Race Supporters’ Club.

Martin Foley, Chairman, Sligo Racecourse, said: “Without the support received from Horse Racing Ireland and from our Race Supporters’ Club we would not be here today and I would also like to acknowledge the important part played by Sligo-based firms, Kilcawley Construction and Rhatigan Architects, in designing and building the fantastic new facilities.”

Brian Kennedy, Manager, Sligo Racecourse, said: “Tuesday’s launch was a momentous occasion for Sligo Racecourse. After months of hard work, we are now a racecourse that can proudly provide facilities which match, if not surpass, what is expected by the racegoers of today.”