How many of your races are sponsored and has it been any more difficult to find sponsors than in previous years?

Just two races are unsponsored and that is mainly due to our flat card, formerly on Thursday, moved back to Monday this year. It hasn’t been anymore difficult getting sponsors this year, really.

How much are general admission tickets?

Tickets are €20 for the first three days of the Festival, then from Wednesday onwards they are €30 each day for adult admissions. There is a special offer (online only) at the moment, where there is €5 off the daily tickets and €35 off the seven-day ticket.

There is also a Combo-Pack on offer for the Sunday, Monday and Tuesday only, which includes admission, €5 Tote voucher, burger and chips and a pint, all for €25 per person.

Are any of your own costs significantly higher this year?

Yes, everything is more expensive and I’m sure other racecourses are in the same boat. It’s challenging times.

In our case a building was damaged by fire after raceweek last year, so that had to be demolished. The year before, numerous stables were damaged by a storm and these were demolished and replaced.

How many staff does Listowel employ on racedays?

In the region of 140 are employed by the racecourse alone. Up to 150 extra staff are employed by the caterer.

Which days of the Festival are most popular and why?

Wednesday is naturally very popular, as it’s Kerry National day. Friday is very popular too because it’s McElligotts Kia Ladies Day. Saturday has really grown over the past few years and it’s attracting good crowds.

Pre-Covid, Listowel used to have mixed cards (flat and NH races on the same day). Do you think they should be revived?

Mixed cards were undeniably popular and it’s a shame that they’ve been phased out, Galway is the only racecourse still allowed to run mixed cards, but for the powers that be there are extra costs involved, so that has to be considered too.

Tell us why the racing public should go to Listowel this month.

Listowel is the place to be! You’ll be sure to receive a warm welcome, see great racing, have fun and an all-round great experience. We must be doing something right, as this year Listowel’s Festival is celebrating its 166th anniversary.

Web: listowelraces.ie