Ballinrobe Racecourse has been crowned "Racecourse of the Year" at the Horse Racing Ireland awards, held last night at the Mansion House in Dublin.
The honor was graciously accepted by Racecourse Chairman, Kenneth Murphy, and Racecourse Manager, John Flannelly.
The findings of an online industry survey taken earlier this year was used to determine the nominees for this award. Ballinrobe emerged as the clear winner having topped a number of the survey’s categories.
The Aidan O'Brien trained 'Auguste Rodin' was named Horse of the Year at the Horse Racing Ireland Awards.
Trainer Jessica Harrington was honoured with the Contribution to the Industry Award, while recently retired jockey Davy Russell won the Irish Racing Hero Award.
Limerick jockey Wesley Joyce, who recovered from serious injury following a fall at Galway last year to return to ride winners in 2023, won the Flat Achievement Award.
Tipperary jockey Amy Jo Hayes took the Ride of the Year Award for her win on 'Redstone Well' at Leopardstown in July.
Ballinrobe was named Racecourse of the Year and there were also awards presented to Aidan O'Brien, John Gleeson, John Kiely, Paul Townend and Barry O'Neill.
The Horse Racing Ireland awards ceremony, that recognizes excellence and achievement in the horse racing industry, saw Ballinrobe Racecourse stand out among its peers, earning the coveted title of "Racecourse of the Year." This accolade underscores Ballinrobe Racecourse's commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for racing enthusiasts and industry stakeholders alike.
Kenneth Murphy, Chairman of Ballinrobe Racecourse, expressed his gratitude for the prestigious recognition, stating, "We are truly honored to receive the 'Racecourse of the Year' award from Horse Racing Ireland. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in Ballinrobe Racecourse’.
John Flannelly, Racecourse Manager, added, "This award is a reflection of the passion and teamwork that goes into creating memorable race day experiences. We are grateful to the entire Ballinrobe Racecourse community, including our staff, sponsors, valued patrons, Lydon House Catering and all those in the racing industry, for contributing to our success. I would also like to congratulate all the winners on the night”.
Ballinrobe Racecourse has long been known for its picturesque setting, outstanding facilities, and commitment to delivering top-class events. The "Racecourse of the Year" award is a fitting acknowledgment of the racecourse's continuous efforts to elevate its standards.
The 11 winners at the 21st Horse Racing Ireland Awards:
Contribution to the Industry: Jessica Harrington
Irish Racing Hero Award: Davy Russell
Horse of the Year: Auguste Rodin
Emerging Talent: John Gleeson
National Hunt Award: Paul Townend
National Hunt Achievement: John Kiely
Point-to-Point Award: Barry O'Neill
Flat Award: Aidan O'Brien
Flat Achievement Award: Wesley Joyce
Ride of the Year winner: Amy Jo Hayes
Racecourse of the Year: Ballinrobe
