Tipperary Racecourse all-weather development update impresses stakeholders Like all good things in life, they come when patience is there. For Tipperary Racecourse and their staff, this has been crucial. Days of progress have been overruled by some tough, slow days, but with a sign of effort and determination, the show is on the road. I was at Tipperary Racecourse this week for an update on the works, and I was unsure of what I was going into beforehand. When I arrived, I was amazed to see the straight, which has seen some spectacular Flat and National Hunt horses throughout the years, gone. But I know it's for the benefit of us all. Arriving in, we were met by a well-organised and professional PowerPoint presentation, and I was particularly impressed by manager Andrew Hogan. He was eager to find out, through those at the forefront of the industry, what they wanted, and he was also proud to show off the ideas they have had. Investment for Irish racing Tipperary Racecourse is situated a stone's throw away from Limerick Junction train station, which will be a huge boost to everyone involved when racing begins. Speaking at the launch, Andrew said: "The development of the new all-weather track represents a major investment in the future of Irish racing and in the economic vitality of Tipperary. The progress update this week demonstrates the strong momentum behind the project and the collaborative effort in Tipperary town and the region that continues to drive it forward. "Ongoing engagement between Tipperary Racecourse, the project team and everyone who attended the progress update throughout the entire construction process is very important for us. We look forward to hosting further progress updates as the project develops and advances towards completion." Construction of the racecourse is ongoing, and there will be further industry days to determine the finer details. The pre-parade ring, saddling boxes and quick access to the track were discussed, along with keeping bookmakers in an area where they can be seen and heard and, on cold evenings, be covered. Modern approach They are looking at a modernised approach, with a view to completion in 2027 and racing set to begin at the end of 2027. Horse racing in Tipperary is crucial. There are 3,025 direct and indirect secondary employments, 798 registered breeders, 70 licensed trainers and over 45,000 racegoers, so it is crucial that the right approach is taken and that those involved are heard. The course will have a new Polytrack surface, similar to that seen at Pau Racecourse in France, and the sand used will be Wexford sand, with a grade yet to be decided. There will be a full schooling gallop available, which will be helpful for the industry and staff. Some of the finer details discussed included field sizes. It looks like there will be 16 runners on the straight track and 14 on the round track, although this is still open to discussion. Going down not knowing what to expect, I was extremely impressed with the professional work completed thus far on the track, and I look forward to further updates.
