Key facts: Naas Racecourse
Nestled in the heart of County Kildare, Naas Racecourse is one of Ireland’s most cherished horse racing venues.
Renowned for its dual-purpose nature, offering both flat and jump racing, the track holds a special place in the hearts of many Irish racing enthusiasts. However, with 20 meetings held each year, lots of fans come far and wide to visit the track to get a chance to witness some of the best racehorses in the world.
There are several standout races held at Naas each year, but none bigger than the Naas Novice Hurdle, a pivotal event in Ireland’s National Hunt calendar, which exemplifies the track’s importance as a proving ground for emerging talent.
In recent years, those fortunate enough to be in attendance have witnessed top-class horses Envoi Allen and Bob Olinger win the race before going on to take the Grade 1 Ballymore Novice Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.
With such a rich history and a reputation for hosting high-quality racing events, Naas is a cornerstone of Irish racing tradition. Will you travel and witness the next Envoi Allen in person?
A history of Naas Racecourse
Naas Racecourse has been a hub for equestrian excellence since its establishment in 1924. Known as ‘The Nursery of Champions’, the title speaks for itself. To date, the winners of 30 Aintree Grand Nationals, 27 Cheltenham Gold Cups and eight King George VI Chases have either begun their careers in Naas or raced on the track. Only the best travel to or come from Ireland to compete.
Having celebrated its centenary last year, it’s worth reflecting on its remarkable journey. Over the past century, Naas has evolved from a local racing venue into an internationally recognised track.
To celebrate Naas Racecourse’s anniversary, a new book, The Centenary of Naas Racecourse, was written by renowned author Turtle Bunbury.
The racecourse’s early days saw it primarily host National Hunt (jump) racing. However, as the popularity of flat racing grew, Naas adapted to meet the demand, becoming a dual-purpose track. This flexibility has made it a crucial component of the Irish racing calendar.
In recent years, Naas has continued to innovate by introducing new races and enhancing its facilities. The addition of races such as the Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes has further elevated the course’s profile. This race, which has one of the richest prize pools for a juvenile event in Ireland, underscores Naas’s commitment to promoting young talent in the sport.
Kildare is known as the ‘Thoroughbred County’ for good reason, as there has always been a rich history attached to the iconic town and course. With numerous top stables in and around Naas, this is one of the best places in the world for racehorses and everyone associated with the sport.
The Naas track
So, what makes the course so special? Naas is a left-handed track for both flat and jump racing, with an uphill finish and long run to the finish line, testing the stamina and drive for each race horse. The track has produced hundreds of enthralling finishes in front of the spectators over the years.
The flat course is roughly one and a half miles long. It is seen very much as a galloping track, with its iconic, stiff four-furlong straight. This certainly separates the weak from the strong and helps trainers soon realise whether their horses are up for the test.
The jump course, meanwhile, is lauded for its fair but testing design. With a mixture of fences and hurdles, it provides an excellent environment for novice jumpers to not only gain experience, but also test themselves against potential future stars.
Naas is widely recognised as a good starting point for horses that trainers believe have the potential to go on to compete at major festivals, including Cheltenham and Punchestown.
The facilities at the track have been modernised over the years to enhance the experience for racegoers. The grandstand offers excellent viewing opportunities, while the hospitality areas provide a premium experience for those seeking a touch of luxury.
What makes Naas special?
Naas Racecourse stands out for its dual-purpose nature, hosting high-quality flat and jump racing throughout the year. This versatility allows it to cater to a wide audience of racing enthusiasts, from fans of fast-paced sprints to those who revel in the tactical challenges of jump racing.
Those who attend will know that Naas has always been a stylish place to be seen, and fashionistas can certainly make the most of the day. This was the case throughout the last century, and racegoers dress to impress, almost as a sign of respect for what Naas Racecourse stands for.
Dermot Cantillon, Chairman of Naas Racecourse, said: “We are so proud of the history and story of Naas and are delighted that it’s finally been told so eloquently by Turtle Bunbury. It’s remarkable to look back at all the old photographs of both famous people and horses and it gives all of us here at Naas Racecourse an enormous sense of pride to be part of something very special.”
A proving ground for novices
One of the defining characteristics of Naas is its reputation as a breeding ground for novice talent. Races such as the Naas Novice Hurdle and the Irish EBF Ballyhane Stakes attract up-and-coming horses and provide a platform for their development.
As mentioned, many horses that have made their mark at Naas have gone on to achieve greatness on the international stage.
The racecourse’s location in Naas, a vibrant town in County Kildare, adds to its appeal. Kildare is steeped in equestrian history and Naas Racecourse plays a central role in this heritage, serving as both a sporting venue and a community hub. The recent centenary celebrations further cemented its status as a cherished institution.
Unlike some racecourses that focus exclusively on one form of racing, Naas operates year-round. Its mix of flat and jump racing ensures that there is always something to look forward to. Highlights include the Naas Novice Hurdle in the winter and prestigious flat races such as the Naas Oaks Trial in the summer.
In short, Naas Racecourse is a jewel in the crown of Irish horse racing. With its rich history, versatile track and commitment to showcasing emerging talent, it embodies the best of what the sport has to offer.
Naas is not just a racecourse but is also a testament to the enduring appeal of horse racing in Ireland. Whether you’re a seasoned racing fan or a newcomer to the sport, a visit to Naas promises an unforgettable experience, and we encourage everyone to attend at least once in their lifetime.
Learn more about Irish horse racing events with Tonybet!
