Curragh and Downpatrick to hold inspections

This weekend's race meetings are under threat with more bad weather on the way. Storm Kathleen is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain on Saturday and both the Curragh and Downpatrick racecourses have decided to hold inspections of their courses to determine if racing can take place.

Brendan Sheridan, IHRB Clerk of the Course at The Curragh said: Following a further 6.5mm of rain overnight, The Curragh remains heavy and fit for racing. Having spoken with Met Éireann this morning, there is the possibility of a further 8-11mm of rain between now and 5.35pm tomorrow.

“However, we are also faced with the prospect of Storm Kathleen which has the potential to bring high gusts of wind through tomorrow. On the basis of the forecast for further rain, we will have a 7.30am inspection on Saturday morning to assess if the track remains fit for racing.

“Should the track remain fit for racing at that point, we will continue to monitor the situation and consult with Met Éireann in relation to the high winds.”

Brian Hamilton, IHRB Clerk of the Course at Downpatrick said: “Following 20mm of rain overnight, Downpatrick is unfit for racing due to parts of the track being waterlogged.

“In total we've had 40mm of rain since Monday at the track and due to that volume of rain, we will have a 7.30am inspection on Sunday morning to determine if racing can go ahead.

“Prior to racing we could have another 5-7mm of rain, however, there is high winds forecast for tomorrow and hopefully they will prove favourable for us. Where raceable the ground is heavy.”