DUNDALK Stadium, Ireland’s only all-weather racecourse, is renowned for its high-quality synthetic track, allowing racing to continue year-round, regardless of weather conditions. The track is an eight-furlong (one-mile) left-handed oval with a sweeping turn into the home straight, allowing for competitive racing and fair conditions for all runners.

Ensuring the surface remains safe and consistent for racehorses requires meticulous maintenance.

Jim Martin, CEO of Dundalk Stadium told Horse Sense: “It’s hard to believe we are in our 18th winter of all-weather racing at Dundalk. Sean Gamble, our head groundsman, has been here from the start and his detailed knowledge of the surface ensures that the track is safe and consistent for every race meeting.”

Greater reliability

The track is composed of a polytrack surface, a blend of silica sand, wax and synthetic fibres. This material provides excellent cushioning and reduces the risk of injuries by mimicking natural turf, while offering greater reliability in wet or freezing conditions.

A dedicated ground staff team, led by Sean Gamble, works daily to maintain the track. Harrowing is carried out regularly to keep the surface even and prevent compaction. This involves using specialised equipment over the track to loosen the top layer, ensuring horses get consistent footing. Rolling is also essential, helping to maintain firmness, without making the surface too hard.

Drainage is another key factor. The polytrack is designed to drain quickly, but staff continuously monitor moisture levels to ensure optimal conditions. During colder months, temperature changes can affect the track’s texture, so adjustments are made accordingly.

Before each race meeting, numerous readings are taken to ensure that the surface is consistent over the full circuit. The track is inspected for irregularities, and fresh material is added if needed. These efforts ensure Dundalk’s surface remains one of the safest and most consistent in Irish racing. Thanks to this expert maintenance, Dundalk Stadium continues to be a vital venue for Irish flat racing, providing trainers and owners with a reliable racing surface all year long.