AN obvious local sporting highlight over the festive period is the four-day Mr Binman Christmas Racing Festival at Limerick’s Greenmount Park in Patrickswell.
Expected to attract an overall attendance of 20,000-plus, the Festival opens on St Stephen’s Day, this Thursday.
The featured €100,000 Faugheen Novice Chase on December 28.
On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of his first Festival winner (Sir John), Rathkeale trainer Eric McNamaa is optimistic of making his presence felt once more.
“Limerick Racecourse is very dear to our hearts and we love going back there every Christmas. It would be very disappointing if we left after the four days without a winner but it’s a long time since we have left without one. It’s been a lucky track for us and long may that stand,” McNamara said.
He is likely to have a dozen runners at the Festival.
“The team are working really hard to put on a great four-day Festival and we are really looking forward to opening our gates on St Stephen’s Day. I’d advise everyone to come early and enjoy some great racing,” commented Michael Lynch, CEO of Limerick Racecourse.
It will be his first Festival in pilot’s seat.
Outside of Team McNamara, other local yards such as those of Charles Byrnes (Ballingarry), Enda Bolger (Bruree), Eoin McCarthy (Athea), Pat O’Donnell (Herberstown), Gillian Scott (Ballingarry), David Fitzgerald (Askeaton), Laura Hourigan (Adare), Austin Leahy (Athlacca), and Richard O’Brien (Ballingarry) will also have targeted this lucrative festival meeting.
Outside of racing, organisers said, the arrival of Big Boss Events to the festival “will bring our unique flair through curating unforgettable experiences for racegoers. Each day will feature diverse attractions.”
Much of the entertainment will centre around the Big Boss Top.
