EARLIER start times and reduced admission prices for the opening days of the Punchestown Festival have been described by the track’s chief executive Conor O’Neill as “very positive” steps, as organisers announced changes to the meeting’s structures for 2024 and beyond.

According to a statement from the track released on Thursday, a four-step plan has evolved on the back of “customer feedback, business analysis, market research and consultation”.

The first of “four key changes” sees the Tuesday and Wednesday cards revert to a 2.30pm start from the current time of 3.40pm. Market research reportedly found that around 70% of paying clients would ‘definitely or most probably’ like to see some of the festival days start and finish earlier. Officials believe this will assist with travel and post racing arrangements.

Pricing review

A full review of ticket pricing and products has resulted in a price reduction to €30 for the first three days, and €40 for Friday and Saturday. The track insists that “as a premium sport and leisure event, these prices compare very favourably.”

There will no longer be early-bird offers or promotions, with the original Flexi Ticket replaced by a new Choice Ticket that can be used Tuesday or Wednesday or Thursday only. Senior, student, group and family ticket concessions continue and all children under 14 years of age race for free all season.

The festival layout will also undergo a full refresh, including the removal of the traditional reserved enclosure and the introduction of new racegoer amenities. The objective is to optimise the scope of the enclosures, utilise all available facilities, which in turn will improve footfall flow and reduce potential pressure points.

Raceday enhancements

Additionally, an enhanced raceday experience has been flagged as a key point of emphasis for the track, aiming to deliver a selection of “great quality food and beverage options with efficient, friendly service in comfortable surroundings”.

“This announcement is a very positive one,” said O’Neill.

“We greatly appreciate feedback, good and bad, as without it we cannot improve the product which we offer. If we’re not improving we’re going backwards, it’s as simple as that and in the current climate that is not something any business can afford to do.

“We say it time and time again that people make Punchestown, so it is those very people who have shaped and informed this plan and it is this plan that will help us deliver the best possible Punchestown experience we can to our customers who are the backbone of our business.

“If it doesn’t work for the customer it ultimately won’t work for Punchestown, so I hope we’ve got the balance right as we look ahead to the 2024 Punchestown Festival.”