2023
PRESS RELEASE
END OF SEASON CELEBRATION – 8th SEPTEMBER
It is hard to believe that the 10 race meetings in Kilbeggan , have passed so quickly through all sorts of weather. Sunshine was not the obvious sight, but supporters and those who love a day out at Kilbeggan races , still turned up for the occasion and the great atmosphere of the racing. The end of the season will be a celebration on Friday 8th September (first race at 4.02pm), with six sponsored races on the card.
KILBEGGAN INCREASES IN SPONSORSHIP AND DRAWS GOOD CROWDS
Paddy Dunican , Manager stated: “2023 has been a successful year for us at Kilbeggan, even though some of our race meetings were marred with wet weather condition, we still attracted good crowds to our race meetings. We also experienced a significant increase in sponsorship from business community, which has helped to attract better quality horses creating more competitive and exciting racing for our fans. Our AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National has now become one of the most valuable and prestigious Steeplechase race’s, of the summer racing season.
SIX SPONSORED RACES FOR A GRAND FINALE
Six races are sponsored at the last meeting of the year including the Kilsaran Handicap Chase of €16,500; the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle sponsored by J.P.McManus; Sean Hughes Memorial Maiden Hurdle sponsored by Josephine Hughes ,Mullingar Park Hotel; the Moyvalley Meats Beginners Steeplechase sponsored by Moyvalley Meats, the celebrating the life of Sean Daly Memorial Handicap Hurdle sponsored by Senator Paul Daly: the Lucy Gannon Memorial Race (Pro/AM), generously sponsored by Sean McNamara of Cork and the Gannon Family of Kinnegad and the Pat Doyle Memorial race
The generosity of these sponsors guarantees that the final meeting will have some great racing for punters and maybe the crowds might be basking in the September sunshine. The last meeting had a double for Gordon Elliott with Nottodaybobo and Ginnet’s Girl plus Martin Brassil’s won with the well backed Desertmore House. Trainer P.J.Rothwell complimented Kilbeggan with the excellent condition of the ground., with his winner El Champo.
Special Discount Packages
Our normal admission ticket to our race meetings is €15. We are offering special discounts for staff, customers and friends on admission tickets at €12 each for groups of 10 or more.
Summer Party Pack Packages
We have our Special Discounted Summer Party Pack from €23 per person which includes admission ticket + 2 X €5 food/ drink vouchers and free race card for groups of 10 or more.
Book Tickets online to avail of our discounts on www.kilbegganraces.com
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SUMMER SATURDAY FESTIVAL AT KILBEGGAN RACES ON 12th AUGUST
Racing like everything else has been affected by the weather, but Kilbeggan carries on providing good racing and an opportunity to get out of the house, regardless of the weather. There is even an opportunity to have a good day out during the Fleadh and enjoy the combination of racing in Kilbeggan. The Summer Saturday Festival is on 12th August with the first race at 5.25pm.
THREE SPONSORED RACES AND THE SUSTAINABLE STYLE LADIES COMPETITION
The feature race at KIlbeggan is the Homevalue Hardware Mullingar Handicap Steeple of €25,000, generously sponsored by Dermot and Conor Kilmurray, which creates more competitive and exciting racing, with a good prize to be won in a good chase. In addition John Mahon of the Hospitality Group from New York are also sponsoring a race. The Bank House Family is sponsoring the historic Joe Cooney Memorial Cup.
Hopefully, with some glorious sunshine in the air, the ladies will have the Sustainable Style Ladies Competition with the winner receiving a €3,000 prize. It is sponsored by Ollie Ryan and Matt Corcoran of Midland Veterinary Tullamore. All the wonderful ladies are being encouraged to show us their upcycled outfits, favourite ethical brands, whether it be thrifted, borrowed or handmade, with headwear an optional extra – it’s time for your sustainable style to shine. It certainly will be an interesting occasion for all. Rose of Tralee Rachel Duffy and Lifestyle Influencer Eileen Loughlin of Everything Eileen Fashion Influencer will Judge our Competition.
Paddy Dunican Managing Director stated “we are delighted that Kilmurray Homevalue Hardware Mullingar are sponsoring our feature Handicap Steeplechase of €25,000, which will attract better quality horses creating more competitive and exciting racing. Our Summer Saturday Festival provides excitement, colour, and thrilling racing in a brilliant atmosphere, and it’s about people enjoying themselves in a relaxed atmosphere. Our Sustainable Style Ladies Competition have embodied class, style and confidence year after year, and the competition is always a colourful and elegant affair”.
A FUTURE RACING STAR HAD A TREBLE AT KILBEGGAN
There is a racing expression “A good rider can hear his horse speak to him. A great rider can hear his horse whisper”, This could apply to a young jockey, who had a treble at the last Kilbeggan races for three different trainers. A young Tipperary jockey Cian Quirke is only 21 y/o and with a claim is hot property, after beating Davy Russell in a finish. Ruby Walsh had already picked him out as a future star after a win in Punchestown. In poor conditions he managed to have a treble in Kilbeggan on Kellies Dream 9/4F in a handicap hurdle for Andrew Slattery; Pakens Rock 15/2 in handicap chase for trainer Barry Murphy; and Seskin Flyer 6/1 winner in the last race for Pat Carey. It was a remarkable achievement and he will always remember his first treble at Kilbeggan, Take a note of him and you might be remembering a great new star.
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14th July 2023
THE €100,000 AXA FARM INSURANCE MIDLANDS NATIONAL GOES TO POST ON FRIDAY JULY 14TH AT KILBEGGANS FLAGSHIP RACE DAY.
It will be a great day as The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National will go to post at Kilbeggan Racecourse on Friday July 14th, with the first race at 5pm. The race, which was promoted to graded status in 2022, is run over three miles and one furlong and is the flagship sporting and social event at the County Westmeath racecourse and a highlight of the summer jumps season. Trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy, Hurricane Georgie took the honours in 2022 with Rachael Blackmore riding Popong for Henry de Bromhead taking second place.
MIDLANDS NATIONAL OF €100,000 at KILBEGGAN
Christy Doherty, AXA Head of Agriculture, commented: “Horse Racing in Ireland is steeped in history and success, with Irish horses and jockeys rated among the very best in the world. AXA shares these values of tradition and performance and is proud to be a supporter of the forthcoming mid-summer race meet in Kilbeggan.”
Paddy Dunican, Managing Director of Kilbeggan Races, said: “Our AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National is the highlight of our racing year. The massive prize fund of €100,000, makes it one of the most valuable and prestigious steeplechase races of the summer racing season, attracting high quality horses and creating very competitive and exciting racing. AXA is one of the top insurance groups in the world and number one insurance company in Ireland and we are delighted to be working with them.”
Jason Morris, Horse Racing Ireland’s Director of Racing and Strategic Projects, said: “The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National race has now become firmly established as one of the highlights of the summer National Hunt programme, always attracting a high quality and very competitive field. Horse Racing Ireland is very appreciative of the continuing support of the sponsors AXA Farm Insurance, which enables HRI to offer prize money of €100,000 for Kilbeggan’s feature event of its racing calendar.”
SPONSORSHIP AND LADIES COMPETITION
The meeting also has a strong supporting card including the sponsored €25,000 Writech Group Handicap Hurdle, which supports the meeting and attracts better quality horses. Writech is based in Mullingar and is a leading the industry worldwide in developing cutting edge technology to design and manufacture fire protection systems for many of the biggest global technology companies in the world. The Irish Whiskey Maiden Hurdle of €10,500 is generously sponsored by Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey (the first official races were held in 1879 in the lands of the Locke Family, who developed the famous Pot Still Distillery in Ireland).
The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Steeplechase of €14,000 is also generously sponsored by the Irish EBF.
In addition to that, Kilbeggan will also host the Bellamianta Sustainable Style Ladies Competition with a prize worth €5,000 including €1,000 cash. This will be an opportunity for many ladies and it is always a great occasion for them to enjoy the atmosphere, with a great prize to be won. Our Sustainable Style Ladies Competitions have embodied style, glamour and confidence and the event is always a colourful and elegant affair.
In racing terms many great horses have raced at Kilbeggan from Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Koko to dual Aintee Grand National winner Tiger Roll, plus Irish Grand National winner Freewheelin Dylan and Henry de Bromhead’s four time Cheltenham winner Put the Kettle On etc. Willie Mullins has raced Group 1 winners here like Aramon, Ariel etc and he is the leading trainer this year with five winners already. The quality of horses continues to increase to make better quality racing. It will be a special occasion for all ages to enjoy it. As a wise man said, “You can learn a lot about a jockey by meeting their horse”.
The Kilbeggan Races dates back to 1840 and it represents racing at its best in the heart of Ireland. From families to racing experts, there is something for everyone. On one famous occasion on the second day of Royal Ascot in June 1991, they had a jackpot carry-over of €53,000 but remarkably, Kilbeggan had a carryover that grew to €66,000!
General admission €15. Students & OAPs €12. Special discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Book online to avail of a 10% discount.
Kilbeggan summer party packs available from only €23 for groups of 10 or more which includes admission, race card, and a €10 food and beverage voucher.
Visit www.kilbegganraces.com for ticket discounts and information.
For further information please contact:
Paddy Dunican
Managing Director
Tel: 087 2485548
Email: paddy@kilbegganraces.com
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Ireland’s Sustainable Style Racing Event Takes Place July 14th At Kilbeggan Races, Sponsored By Bellamianta
THE WINNER TAKES HOME A PRIZE WORTH OVER €5000 FROM SOME OF IRELAND’S TOP BEAUTY AND LIFESTYLE BRANDS, INCLUDING €1000 CASH.
Link to high-res images: https://tinyurl.com/3cutabdc
The largest race meeting of the year at Kilbeggan Races is just over a week away, with Ireland’s Sustainable Style Ladies Competition sponsored by Bellamianta taking place Friday, July 14th 2023. We are encouraging all of the wonderful ladies to show us their upcycled outfits, favourite ethical brands, whether it be thrifted, borrowed or handmade, with headwear an optional extra – it’s time for your sustainable style to shine! Fashion is said to be in the eye of the beholder, but this year, judging the event on behalf of Bellamianta, Sustainable Fashion Stylist and Social & Personal Magazine Columnist Roxanne Parker will have the final say on who will take home the incredible prizes:
- 1 Year’s Supply of Bellamianta luxury tanning and make-up products for you and a friend
- €1,000 cash
- 4 Training Sessions with Celebrity Trainer Paul Byrne at the state-of-the-art BodyByrne Gym
- A Hamper packed with Kash Beauty’s Incredible Fan Favourites from their Esteemed Make-up Collection
- A 6 Month Supply of Annutri’s Miracle Hair Supplement “Grow It” & Scalp Brush
- A Hamper of LA Girl Cosmetic’s Bestselling Make-up Collection
- Natural, Handcrafted Aromatherapeutic Oils & Balms Courtesy Of Change of Air
- Luxury Oral Care Products including a Water Flosser, Whitening Toothpaste, A Bamboo Toothbrush & Toothpaste Tablets from Polished London
- A Selection of Premium Skincare Products from Opulent Swiss Skincare brand Declaré
- A Handwoven Shirt from Sustainable Irish-Owned Brand The Linen Shirt Company
- The Entire Award-Winning Collection of True Beauty Cosmetics by Aideen Kate
- 1 Year’s hairdressing from Revered Hair and Scalp Specialists Pelo Hairdressing
- A Hamper of Multi-Award-Winning Products from Irish Beauty Brand, Ayu Cosmetics
- Top of the range Hair tools, Haircare Products & Accessories from Voduz
Speaking about their sponsorship, Bellamianta’s Linda Stinson commented “We are very excited to be yet again supporting Kilbeggan Races for the Sustainable Ladies Style Competition. As I have seen in years prior, the ladies always turn out in style, and I have no doubt that this year’s event will be any different. Roxanne (Parker) is going to have a very difficult task on her hands to pick just one winner out of so many glamourous ladies!”
The AXA Midlands National of €100,000, with the first race starting at 5:00 PM, is one of the most prestigious races of the summer racing season. The event has been described as the social event of the year in the Midlands with a full evening of entertainment for all the family including live music, as well as the glamour of the style event and not to forget, the exciting racing taking place.
Book your tickets online at www.kilbegganraces.com.
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PRESS RELEASE (7th APRIL 2023)
KILBEGGAN RACES IS BACK WITH A SPECIAL TWO-DAY SPRING MEETING
It is that time of the year, as Kilbeggan Races is back with the very popular two-day spring meeting on Thursday 20th and Friday 21st April, with the first race at 4pm approximately. It has been a very wet period for many people to get out, but perhaps this spring will bring sunshine and Kilbeggan Races could be the place to have a great day out, with ten race meetings from now until September.
As Managing Director Paddy Dunican stated: “2022 was a very successful and historic year for us at Kilbeggan, we have had a significant increase in the number of paying customers attending our race meetings. We also experienced a huge increase in sponsorship from business with the most significant development being the upgrading of our AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National to a Grade B race and the Prize Money increasing from €75,000 to €100,000. We are looking forward to another very successful year at Kilbeggan. So far, we are experiencing an increase in the number of pre-group bookings from local social clubs and business bringing their staff and customers for a day out and also a number of new sponsors.
GREAT RACING AND GREAT HORSES AT KILBEGGAN
Many excellent champion horses have raced in Kilbeggan in the last few years and it’s sometimes forgotten. On 20th June 2016, Michael O’Leary’s great champion and dual Aintree Grand National winner Tiger Roll won a novice chase at Kilbeggan prior to the big race. The Aintree Grand National was won by Minella Times ridden by Rachael Blackmore and the horse had won a maiden hurdle at Kilbeggan on 11th May 2018 and was 2nd in a Beginners Chase at Kilbeggan at 16/1. Freewheelin Dylan bred locally by Cathal Ennis won three times at Kilbeggan from 2018-20 before winning the Midlands National in Kilbeggan. Henry De Bromhead’s wonderful champion Put the Kettle On won four times at Cheltenham including the Two-Mile Champion Chase. He also won a chase in Kilbeggan on 17th May 2019. This short list shows 3 Aintree Grand National winners, a Champion Chaser, and an Irish Grand National winner all runners at Kilbeggan.
Sport is the biggest influence for bringing people together and creating a memorable experience, as we see with the great success of the Irish rugby teams, the recent soccer match between Ireland & France, the GAA etc. Kilbeggan Races in the heart of Ireland continues to bring people for a great day out, especially as the course is not far from anywhere in Ireland. It’s a great entertainment venue and Kilbeggan Races is all about people enjoying a great social event in a relaxed atmosphere, where you can have that family get together, meet old friends and new friends.
Special Discount Packages
Our normal admission ticket to our race meetings is €15. We are offering special discounts for staff, customers and friends on admission tickets at €12 each for groups of 10 or more.
Summer Party Pack Packages
We have our Special Discounted Summer Party Pack from €23 per personwhichincludesadmission ticket + 2 X €5 food/ drink vouchers and free race card for groups of 10 or more. Additional drink and betting vouchers can also be purchased.
We also have corporate hospitality packages and sponsorship opportunities. Visit our website for more information. Book Tickets online to avail of our discounts on www.kilbegganraces.com
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2022
Press Release
END OF THE SEASON CELEBRATION AT KILBEGGAN RACES NEXT FRIDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER
They say that any horse can win on any day. It might not be true, but it is part of what keeps people interested in racing. This year, racing at Kilbeggan has been a great success, as many people came back to the special atmosphere that is unique to the midland venue. The final fixture of this year will be a celebration of the season and a great way to have a special day out next Friday 2nd September with the first race at 4.30pm.
SUCCESS OF AXA FARM INSURANCE MIDLANDS NATIONAL DRAWS THE CROWDS
Competitive racing between all the leading trainers like Wille Mullins, Gordon Elliott, and Henry De Bromhead brought the crowds, some for racing and many more just to enjoy the day. Gordon Elliott’s Hurricane George galloped away with the big race at 8/1 to win by 13th lengths with Jack Kennedy on board.
Paddy Dunican, Manager stated: “2022 has been a brilliant and historic year for us at Kilbeggan, we have had a significant increase in the number of paying customers attending our race meetings from our pre-covid race meetings in 2019. We also experienced a huge increase in sponsorship from businesses with the most significant development been the upgrading of our AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National to a Grade B race with the Prize Money increasing from €75,000 to €100,000. Our Midlands National has now become one of the most valuable and prestigious Steeplechase races of the summer racing season. All of Ireland’s top National Hunt trainers are winning races here at Kilbeggan providing very competitive and exciting racing for our race goers.”
RACHEL DUFFY WESTMEATH ROSE OF TRALEE WILL BE ATTENDING
Aside from Kilbeggan’s success, this has been a momentous year for Westmeath with them beating Cavan in the Tailteann Cup, the week-long fleadh was wonderful, and 23-year-old Rachel Duffy delivered the big prize by becoming the first Westmeath winner of the Rose of Tralee. It was a great honour for her and as she said, “I don’t need a crown to be seen as special and I embraced being the Westmeath Rose and I was so proud to be it.” She didn’t think she would win and was stunned when Daithí O’Se called out her name. She had a sore throat but her version of the song “Teddy O’Neill” was beautiful and appreciated by the audience. She will be in attendance at the racecourse next Friday and it will be a wonderful opportunity for people to meet her.
A GREAT DAY’S RACING AND A GREAT DAY OUT
With several sponsored races it will be a competitive meeting including The Kilsaran handicap Steeplechase, The Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Hurdle sponsored by JP McManus and the Sean Hughes Memorial Maiden Hurdle, sponsored by Josephine Hughes Mullingar Park Hotel. The support of these good sponsors helps to provide better quality racing over the jumps. Two other special races celebrate the contribution of two very special people who made racing in Kilbeggan better over the years. The Life of Sean Daly Memorial Handicap Hurdle sponsored by Paul Daly and the Pat Doyle Memorial Race remembering Sgt Doyle.
The Leading Jockey prize will be very competitive with Patrick Mullins on 4 winners and five others on 3 winners including Rachael Blackmore and Jack Kennedy. The Leading Trainer prize looks like a straight battle between Willie Mullins on 7 winners and Henry De Bromhead on 5 winners.
It might be the grand finale of the year but it should be a wonderful occasion and a chance to meet up with all your family and friends before the autumn sets in and you might get the big priced winner you missed ! Don’t forget that the first race is at 4.30pm.
Special Discount Packages
Our normal admission ticket to our race meetings is €15. We are offering special discounts on admission tickets at €12 each for groups of 10 or more.
Summer Party Packs
We have our Special Discounted Summer Party Packs from €23 per personwhichincludesadmission ticket, plus 2 X €5 food/ drink vouchers, plus a free race card for groups of 10 or more.
Book Tickets online to avail of our discounts on www.kilbegganraces.com
For Further information please contact:
Paddy Dunican
Managing Director
Tel: 087 2485548
Email: paddy@kilbegganraces.com
Summer Saturday Festival at Kilbeggan Races on 6th August, First Race at 5.20 pm
New Feature Race, the Kilmurray Homevalue Hardware Mullingar Handicap Steeplechase of €25,000, generously sponsored by Dermot and Conor Kilmurray.
Sustainable Style Ladies Competition with the Winner Receiving a €3,000 Cash Prize, Sponsored by Ollie Ryan and Matt Corcoran of Midland Veterinary Tullamore.
We are encouraging all of the wonderful ladies to show us their upcycled outfits, favourite ethical brands, whether it be thrifted, borrowed or handmade, with headwear an optional extra – it’s time for your sustainable style to shine!
Paddy Dunican Managing Director stated “We are continuing to experience a significant increase in the number of new people coming to Kilbeggan Races, our race meetings are a great opportunity for a group of friends or family to enjoy themselves in an exciting atmosphere with thrilling horse racing. Our Sustainable Style Ladies Competition have always embodied class, style and confidence and this year the Winner will walk away with a Cash Prize of €3,000.
Admission Adults €15, Student & OAP’s €12, Children Under 16 Free, Group Discounts Available
Book Online on www.kilbegganraces.com
Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me:
Kilbeggan Races to host first graded race
€100,000 AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National
Friday July 8 2022
The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National at Kilbeggan Racecourse has been upgraded to Grade B status.
The race, over three miles and one furlong, will also run with a significantly increased prize fund of €100,000 and is the centre-piece of Kilbeggan Races’ fixture list and the summer jumps season.
Paddy Dunican, Managing Director of Kilbeggan Races, said: “We are delighted that the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National race has been upgraded to a Grade B race. With the support of our sponsor AXA Farm Insurance and Horse Racing Ireland, the prize money has increased from €75,000 to €100,000. We are excited to see some top-quality runners due to the improved status and increased prize money on offer. The aim has always been to have a graded race at Kilbeggan, so it’s great to see our vision come to fruition on Friday July 8.”
Christy Doherty, AXA Head of Agriculture, commented: “AXA Farm Insurance are delighted to continue our sponsorship of the Midlands National for the fourth year. The Midlands National is a very important event for our business as it provides us with the opportunity to engage with our customers at our local racecourse on their biggest race meeting of their season.”
Jason Morris, Horse Racing Ireland’s Director of Racing and Strategic Projects, said: “The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National race has become a real feature of the summer National Hunt Programme and Horse Racing Ireland is delighted that the quality of runners in recent years has justified the race’s promotion to a Grade B race, giving Kilbeggan a well-deserved first Black Type race.”
The meeting also hosts a strong supporting card including the €25,000 Writech Group Handicap Hurdle.
Kilbeggan leads the way in staging Irelands First Sustainable Style Racing Event, with the Bellamianta Sustainable Style Ladies Competition including a prize worth €5,000.
The first race is at 5:20pm.
REPRO FREE photos available from Finbarr O’Rourke Photography. Tel: 087 2200590.
General admission €15. Students & OAPs €12. Special discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Book online to avail of a 10% discount.
Kilbeggan Summer Party Pack from only €23for groups of 10 or more which Includes admission, racecard, and a €10 food and beverage voucher.
Visit www.kilbegganraces.com for ticket discounts and information.
SUSTAINABLE STYLE RACING EVENT AT KILBEGGAN RACECOURSE, JULY 8TH 2022
SPONSORED BY BELLAMIANTA LUXURY TANNING
Ireland’s First Sustainable Style Racing Event Takes Place
July 8th 2022 at Kilbeggan Races, Sponsored By Bellamianta
Luxury Tanning
THE WINNER TAKES HOME A PRIZE WORTH OVER €5000 FROM SOME OF IRELAND’S TOP BEAUTY
AND LIFESTYLE BRANDS, INCLUDING €1000 CASH.
The largest race meeting of the year at Kilbeggan Races is just over a week away, with
Ireland’s very first Sustainable Style Ladies Competition sponsored by Bellamianta Luxury
Tanning taking place Friday, July 8th 2022. We are encouraging all of the wonderful ladies to
show us their upcycled outfits, favourite ethical brands, whether it be thrifted, borrowed or
handmade, with headwear an optional extra – it’s time for your sustainable style to shine!
Fashion is said to be in the eye of the beholder, but this year, judging the event on behalf of
Bellamianta Luxury Tanning, Industry Expert Mark Rogers will have the final say will take home
the incredible prizes:
• 1 Year’s Supply of Bellamianta products for you and a friend
• €1000 cash
• 4 Training Sessions with Celebrity Trainer To The Stars Paul Byrne at the state-of-the-art
BodyByrne Gym
• 6 Month Supply of Annutri’s Miracle Hair Supplement “Grow It” & Scalp Brush
• A luxurious Infinity Limited Edition Box from Casmara
• Full Collection of True Beauty by Aideen Kate
• Diffuser Blender Bundle from Irish-owed premium essential oil company Kotanical
• Polished London Water Flosser, Toothpaste, Bamboo Toothbrush & Toothpaste Tablets
• Hamper of Declaré skincare
• A Linen Shirt from Linen Shirt Company
• 1 Year’s hairdressing from Award Winning Hair and Scalp Specialists Pelo
• Hamper of GLOV’s eco-friendly makeup removal products
• Hair tools, haircare products and accessories from Voduz
Speaking about their sponsorship, Bellamianta’s Linda Stinson commented “We are very
excited to be yet again supporting Kilbeggan Races for the Sustainable Ladies Style
Competition and welcoming the announcement of the sustainability element this year.
As I have seen in years prior, the ladies always turn out in style, and I have no doubt that
this year’s event will be any different. I think that Mark (Rogers) is going to have a very
difficult task on his hands to pick a winner when he sees all of the glamourous ladies!”
The AXA Midlands National of €100,000, with the first race starting at 5:20PM, is one of the
most prestigious races of the summer racing season. The event has been described as the
social event of the year in the Midlands with a full evening of entertainment for all the family
including live music, children’s entertainment, as well as the glamour of the style event and
not to forget, the exciting racing taking place.
Book your tickets online at http://www.kilbegganraces.com.
Check out our promotional video here.
For more information, please contact Valerie Roe – _Valerie@ValerieRoe.com
or Lauren Lauren@ValerieRoe.com
ValerieRoePR
Follow Bellamianta Luxury Tanning
Website – http://bellamianta.com
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Bellamianta/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/bellamianta/
TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@bellamianta
Follow Kilbeggan Races
Website – https://kilbegganraces.com
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kilbegganraces/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KilbegganRaces/
For Further information on Kilbeggan Races please contact:
Paddy Dunican
Tel: 057 933 2176, Email: info@kilbegganraces.com
MARKETING | EVENT MANAGEMENT | PR
Paramount Court | Corrig Road | Sandyford Business P

PRESS RELEASE
THE AXA FARM INSURANCE MIDLANDS NATIONAL OF €100,000 HIGHLIGHTS KILBEGGANS RACING YEAR ON FRIDAY EVENING 8TH JULY 2022
One hundred years ago in 1918 a paper stated, “as if by magic immunity from the artificiality of modern times, the Kilbeggan meeting has preserved to this day, all the tenures of the old-fashioned Irish race meeting –with its picturesqueness, its light heartedness, its sociability amongst the people mingling on the course”.
These words still echo what Kilbeggan races means to people of all ages, even more so in the modern world of the social media. The races are on Friday Evening 8th July with the first race at 5.20pm and it will be different in that the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National of €100,000 is the Highlight of Kilbeggan’s Racing Year and the race has been upgraded to a Grade B race, with the prize fund increasing from €75,000 to €100,000. It will be the first time for Kilbeggan to stage a Graded race, which together with the 25% increase in prize money, will help to further attract better quality horses and create more competitive and exciting racing.
MIDLANDS NATIONAL OF €100,000 AT KILBEGGAN
Kilbeggan Races dates back to 1840 and since then many great horses have raced on the track from Gold Cup winner Koko to dual Aintree Grand National winner Tiger Roll. Perhaps this might be the year of another future champion in the Midland’s National.
Paddy Dunican, Managing Director of Kilbeggan Races, said: “We are delighted that the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands Nationalrace has been upgraded to a Grade B race. With the support of our sponsor AXA Farm Insurance and Horse Racing Ireland, the prize money has increased from €75,000 to €100,000. We are excited to see some top-quality runners due to the improved status and increased prize money on offer. The aim has always been to have a graded race at Kilbeggan, so it’s great to see our vision come to fruition on Friday July 8.”
Christy Doherty, AXA Head of Agriculture, commented: “AXA Farm Insurance are delighted to continue our sponsorship of the Midlands National for the fourth year. The Midlands National is a very important event for our business as it provides us with the opportunity to engage with our customers at our local racecourse on their biggest race meeting of their season.”
Jason Morris, Horse Racing Ireland’s Director of Racing and Strategic Projects, said: “The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands Nationalrace has become a real feature of the summer National Hunt programme and Horse Racing Ireland is delighted that the quality of runners in recent years has justified the race’s promotion to a Grade B race, giving Kilbeggan a well-deserved first Black Type race.”
In addition, Writech Group of Mullingar are sponsoring a new feature handicap hurdle of €25,000 to further support the meeting and attract better quality horses. Writech based in Mullingar is leading the industry worldwide in developing cutting edge technology to design and manufacture fire protection systems for many of the biggest global technology companies in the world. Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey are sponsoring a hurdle race and there is a strong historic association of the Locke family being involved locally in Kilbeggan Races back to 1840. The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Chase at the meeting often produces useful chaser for the future.
Alan Wright said: “The Writech Group are delighted to support Kilbeggan Racecourse on Midlands National Day. We are also looking forward in welcoming some of our esteemed clients to the event which shall be a very enjoyable occasion not to mention demonstrating the uniqueness of the Midlands Region. We would like to thank Paddy Dunican & his Team for the professionalism they have shown in assisting us on our Corporate Day in 2022”.
The Midland’s National race meeting is the highlight of our racing year and the event has been described in many quarters as the social event of the year in the Midlands. Kilbeggan is all about the joy of the moment, whether it is a horse winning, a crowd cheering, friends laughing, families meeting, fashion dazzling, glasses clinking, music pleasing, or bookies paying. Willie Mullins has raced some very useful horses at Kilbeggan over the years and as his father the great Paddy Mullins stated in 1993 “There is a great buzz to it, unlike some of the deadly meetings we have to attend during the year”. There are seven races on the card and it all kicks off at 5.20pm on Friday 8th July.
KILBEGGAN LEADS THE WAY WITH IRELANDS FIRST SUSTAINABLE STYLE RACING EVENT!
The Bellamianta Sustainable Style Ladies Competition with a prize worth €5,000 including €1,000 cash sponsored by Bellamianta Luxury Tanning and AXA at Kilbeggan Races. We are encouraging all of the wonderful ladies to show their upcycled outfits, favourite ethical brands, whether it be thrifted, borrowed or handmade, with headwear an optional extra. Celebrity Judge: Mark Rogers.
This Fantastic Prize for the Winner includes: Bellamianta Luxury Tanning – A year’s supply of Bellamianta Luxury Tanning products for you and a friend, Annutri – 6 months’ supply of Grow It & Scalp Brush, CASMARA – Infinity Limited Edition Box, TRUE BEAUTY by Aideen Kate – Full Cosmetics Collection, KOTANICAL – Diffuser Blend Bundle, POLISHED LONDON – Dental Products, DECLARÉ – Skincare Products, GLOV – Makeup Removal Products, LINEN SHIRT COMPANY – High-End Irish-Linen Shirt, PELO – One Years Hairdressing, BODY BYRNE – 4 Personal Training Sessions with Celebrity Trainer Paul Byrne, VODUZ – Hair Tools & Products and €1,000 in cash.
Our normal admission ticket to our race meetings is €15. We are offering special discounts for staff, customers and friends on admission tickets at €12 each for groups of 10 or more. We have our Special Discounted Summer Party Pack for €23 per personwhichincludesadmission ticket + 2 X €5 food/ drink vouchers and free race card for groups of 10 or more. Book Tickets online to avail of our discounts on www.kilbegganraces.com
THE EXCITING KILBEGGAN SUMMER FESTIVAL OF RACING WILL BE TAKING PLACE NEXT SUNDAY, JUNE 5th AND IT WILL BE A SPECIAL BANK HOLIDAY OCCASION.
The Summer Sunday Festival of racing will be on next Sunday, June 5th, at Kilbeggan starting at 2.10 PM. Already we have had three successful and enjoyable meetings, showing that Kilbeggan Races is one of the great social events in the midlands . It’s in the centre of the country ,which makes it accessible and not too far away from any county. The objective for people is to have a great evening with fun, excitement, glamour, music and great racing over the jumps.
Manager Paddy Dunican sums up the occasion “The Summer Sunday Festival provides excitement, colour, and thrilling racing in a brilliant atmosphere, and it’s about people enjoying themselves in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great opportunity for a group of friends to get together; for a family outing; and some great competitive racing over the jumps on a Bank Holiday weekend. The first three meetings were very successful and this holiday meeting should not be missed by the young or the young at heart. In addition, attendances have increased over the first three meetings”.
GREAT CHAMPIONS AND FEATURED RACES
The last meeting was exciting as two champion horses were paraded in Kilbeggan to a delighted crowd. Freewheelin Dylan won the Irish Grand National last year at 150/1 and the Midlands Grand National in Kilbeggan for trainer Dermot McLoughlin. Amazingly, he went on to win the Irish Grand National again this year with Lord Lariat. Gavin Cromwell trained Flooring Porter to win the Paddy Power’s Stayers Hurdle at Cheltenham two years in succession for a syndicate of 30 people. The two great horses were paraded around Kilbeggan at the last meeting to the delight of the attendance and received a great reception. Gordon Elliott’s Level Neverending had a battle in the betting with Willie Mullin’s Baby Zeus in a maiden hurdle but he won easily in the end by 8 lengths. Mullin’s horse Hors Piste who ran at Cheltenham and was third in a Grade 1 at Fairyhouse, showed his class by winning the novice hurdle easily. John Patrick Ryan trained Bonarc owned by the interesting Mules and Tools syndicate proved that the horse was no “mule” in the handicap hurdle by winning by 10 lengths.
Next Sunday will have two featured races with J.P.McManus sponsoring the Adare Manor Hurdle race and the Entegro Handicap Chase of €20,000 is sponsored by them. Entegro is at the forefront of Telecommunications technology, designing and deploying gigabit networks for generations. They work with communities ,industries, and service providers, to empower and connect people, homes, and businesses in urban and rural areas. A special project supported by Kilbeggan Racecourse is Hooves 4 Hospice which is a Lions Clubs fundraising project with a target of €1 million to go towards the cost of the new Midland Regional Hospice. Thanks to the generosity of farmers in particular and the wider agri sector in general that challenging target is within reach. Kilbeggan Racecourse is pleased to support this very worthwhile initiative.
MUSIC IN THE AIR
Music will be in the air on the track with a live band Gorilla Radio playing in the marquee and a DJ on the track. Formed 13 years ago, Gorilla Radio have graced most of the well-known pubs and clubs in Ireland to this point. With their high-energy on-stage presence and an eclectic mix of old and modern pop and rock covers, this band know how to entertain, whether you’re into Ed Sheeran, Queen and everything in between. Gorilla Radio will have you dancing the night away ! A Sunday meeting is ideal for the young to the young at heart, groups, families and punters, who will have great jump racing and maybe a few winners!
Special Discount Packages
Our normal admission ticket to our race meetings is €15. We are offering special discounts for staff, customers and friends on admission tickets at €12 each for groups of 10 or more.
Summer Party Pack Packages
We have our Special Discounted Summer Party Pack from €23 per person which includes admission ticket + 2 X €5 food/ drink vouchers and race card for groups of 10 or more.
Book Tickets online to avail of our discounts on www.kilbegganraces.com
Kind Regards,
Managing Director
Kilbeggan Races
Contact our Office on 057 93 32176