Killarney Racecourse is set to host the first of its three summer horse-racing festivals from next weekend.

ALL SET: Mariam Diasamidze (right) and Aisling O'Sullivan all set for the racing festival at Killarney Racecourse this racing season. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

Taking place from May 15 to Tuesday 17 inclusive, ‘MayFest’ at Killarney Races offers great racing and so much more at Ireland’s most scenic racecourse. Live music, family fun and delicious food and beverage offerings complement the best of summer racing at the track.

There are a number of ticket levels and packages to choose from, whether it is close to the action general admission tickets or silver service fine dining and a table for the day, there is something for everyone at Killarney Races. Adult admission tickets will give you access to all you need for a great day at the races; the viewing stands, public bars and restaurants, the bookies ring and parade ring viewing areas as well as access to live entertainment during and after racing all for just €20. OAPs and students enjoy a reduced rate admission of €15 per person with appropriate ID. Furthermore, it is good to note that all children under the age of 14 are free of charge to attend every race day at Killarney Races when accompanied by an adult. So why not bring along your very own ‘junior jockeys’ to Mayfest for a fun and inexpensive family day out.

Ideal for groups of friends and social clubs the Punters Package looks like a winner, offering the key ingredients for a good start to any race day; admission, racecard, a drink and a bet. The punters package will get you suited and booted for a proper day out with all the gang at Killarney Races. While those with a more discerning palate might opt for the Panoramic Restaurant package which includes four-course dining, a reserved table for the day, table service for food, beverages, and betting as well as a private balcony with stunning views overlooking the entire racecourse.

“Killarney Races is a boutique festival," Chairman Ger Coughlan said. 

"It encompasses a wonderful mix of summer horse racing blended with live entertainment on the lawn and indoors, a wide variety of delicious food and beverage offerings, family fun and fashion. Here at Ireland’s most scenic racecourse our focus is on customer experience. We offer an unrivalled quality product where sport, entertainment and hospitality all combine to create a memorable day out. The stunning backdrop we race against is without question one of the finest in the world and we’re just a stone’s throw away from the town centre where there will be lots of aprés racing fun and frolics also. The team here simply can’t wait to see crowds back, as it really is the people who attend that really make this place come alive. Killarney Races is unique, things are a little more special and remarkable here than your typical day out so if you're new to racing come along and all visitors and regular racegoers are valued and most welcome to join us.”

Sunday (May 15) is an all jump racing card with the first race off at 2pm and gates open from 12 noon. It will be a very special day at Killarney Racecourse, as the EBF Mares Race will be held in memory of the late Donie Sheahan, a fitting tribute to such a lovely man who adored and contributed so much to racing.

Monday (May 16) is an evening meeting, all jump racing again with a start time of 5pm and gates open from 3pm. The feature race is the TOTE Killarney National. Tuesday will close MayFest in style, the feature race is The Irish Examiner Handicap Flat Race. The first race goes to post at 4.55pm and gates open from 3pm.

Music throughout the festival will be provided by Cathal Flaherty, Craig Counihan and SuperCéilí. On Sunday there will be children’s entertainment also, to ensure plenty of fun between races during MayFest too.

Possibly the most competitive race of the festival could be the public dash for the new stunning rattan furniture on the lawns! Patrons are advised to come early, to nab the best seats in the house and enjoy something to eat or drink before racing, gates open two hours before the first race each day.

Killarney Racecourse is just a stroll from the town centre with ample on-site free car parking also. Enhanced facilities are complemented by new hospitality partners and an atmosphere you’ll want to bottle and bring home with you, the only question left is, have you booked yet? For further information or to book online visit www.killarneyraces.com.