AS the festive season really takes off, the Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR) is taking the opportunity to highlight some wonderful gift ideas from its member’s racecourses. Each racecourse has its own selection of gift ideas for the avid racegoer or horse racing enthusiast! This week’s column is all about exploring some gift ideas offered by racecourses this year.

Vouchers for tickets or open tickets that are flexible on different dates at the races are the obvious gift for the avid racing fan at their local track, saving them the admission fees for their next visit or two.

Perhaps a nice idea would be to look at the various ticket options available at racecourses and upgrading their usual general admission ticket to a package deal or reserved access option if it is available at their favourite venue.

More and more racecourses are designing and selling branded gifts and apparel. From baseball caps and snoods to gilets and jackets, check out their individual websites and see what’s available. Although the track might be some distance from you, ordering online or by telephone, and paying for postage and packaging, offers a simple gift idea and it is delivered to your door, or the door of the gift recipient.

Racecourse membership, annual membership or racegoers club. The name may vary but the concept differs little up and down the country. Most racecourses offer a membership-style package which includes a range of features, such as admission to all race meetings at the track in 2022.

A reserved area or access to a members’ bar is often part of the package also, and frequently you will find reciprocal arrangements between racecourses which offer free admission to other racecourses on specific dates throughout the year.

Packages

Hospitality at the races is a real treat, with restaurants offering splendid views of the racecourse, with table service for food, beverages and betting. What’s not to love about that? A reserved table for the day, racecards, tipsters, dinner and a nice base for the day to enjoy the racing from in comfort and style is always a winner for a racing fan, and will be much appreciated.

For now, indoor dining Covid-19 restrictions and protocols apply and the facilities and offerings at each course vary, but often for less than you think. This offers a raceday experience that is quite unique.

‘Race and Stay’ packages are offered by numerous hospitality providers all across the country, with multiple add-ons available also. Why not design your very own perfect racing getaway by combining some of these packages with other interesting excursions and activities available in the area while you’re at it? There are so many great deals available in all four provinces. Make this year’s gift the staycation opportunity your friend or family member has been waiting for.

High-end

Finally, for that high-end gift requirement, a race sponsorship at the recipient’s favourite racecourse could be the ultimate dream gift this Christmas.

Packages vary at racecourses, and the budget plays a part naturally, but typical sponsorship packages include naming rights on the race, racecard advertising, space for a feature on the individual, tickets, parade ring access to meet the stars, the right to make a presentation to the winning connections of the race, photographs and so much more. Most of all it is an experience like no other for a real racing fan.

AIR hopes that you will support Irish racecourses this Christmas, and that this feature has inspired that perfect gift idea for someone you care for who loves going racing. For further information and to find links to all racecourses visit www.air.ie.