STARTING with the premier county, Tipperary Racecourse, one of 26 members of the Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR), has back-to-back evening meetings coming up next week.

On Wednesday 29th, the team at Tipperary will host an all-flat card which features the Listed Coolmore Ten Sovereigns Listed Stakes. The following evening, Thursday 30th, a National Hunt card will ensure plenty of thrilling action, with the feature race being the Grade 3 Kevin McManus Bookmakers Grimes Hurdle.

Off-track, competition will be fierce on Thursday as ladies battle it out in the fashion stakes. Who could blame them as there is a €1,000 cash prize and overnight stay at The Woodlands Hotel in Adare, Co. Limerick for the winner; not bad for an evening’s work on a Thursday!

Sunday, July 17th is another date for your diary as Tipperary offers a family day theme, with lots to see and do. Children under the age of 14 can attended free gratis when accompanied by an adult, and so it really is a lovely day out for all ages.

For the socialisers, racing on two Fridays, August 5th and 26th, offer summer barbecues and the best of flat racing. For more details, and to book, visit www.tipperaryraces.ie

Cork Racecourse, Mallow

Following a successful run of shows in 2019, Cork Rocks returns to the county’s only racecourse this summer. The Hothouse Flowers is the Cork Rocks’ headliner for this year’s event, taking place at the racecourse on Friday, July 8th, followed by Declan Nerney on Friday, July 22nd.

The Hothouse Flowers have remained a consistent live force on the Irish music scene over many years, and remain huge favourites with fans to this day. Despite the band’s lengthy career, which is now heading into its fourth decade, there is a sense of unfinished business.

Speaking ahead of Cork Rocks, general manager Andrew Hogan said: “We are thrilled to have Cork Rocks back in full swing. The 2019 gigs here will go down in history. At €20, tickets for racing and music represent great value for a brilliant summer night out.”

Bank holiday Monday, August 1st, is a family day at Cork Racecourse Mallow, offering a brilliant fun-filled day for adults and children of all ages. For further information on fixtures, news, updates and to book tickets, simply visit www.corkracecourse.ie

Busy time

Speaking of his action-packed schedule planned for both tracks, Hogan said: “It’s a busy time of year for sure. Sales are going really well, with both ticket and hospitality bookings stronger than ever at both tracks. It’s great to be back to it, and there is a real buzz around each racecourse, which is fantastic for all the staff.

“It’s also brilliant to see the excitement build among our members, regular supporters and our sponsors, to whom we are most grateful. There’s plenty to look forward to; great racing, lots of hospitality packages at various price points, and top-class off-track entertainment too. We have a mix of fashion, family days and live music events to choose from. I’m delighted with the programme we have on offer- there is something for everyone!”

There are so many great meetings to choose from all across the country over the summer months, so do visit the AIR member racecourses and support as many as you can, and as often as you can.