RACES: Killarney Racecourse Manager Philip O’Brien says that preparations are underway for next week's race meeting. Photo: Michelle Crean

By Michelle Crean

Racing returns to Killarney next week - but again it'll be behind closed doors - due to the current restrictions.

From Wednesday next, August 19 to Saturday 22, racing continues with strict protocols in place overseen by Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) and the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB), Irish racing’s governing bodies.

“We are all geared up and ready to go for our August racing festival which again is being held behind closed doors,” Racing Manager Philip O’Brien said. “Unfortunately for us and all our loyal patrons that come racing to Killarney every year, it is becoming an all too familiar sight in Ireland and the world but hopefully this will not be the case in the future. We are in our final preparations and are looking forward to four great days of quality racing."

He added that he'd like to give special thanks to all the staff that have worked extremely hard in having the track in amazing condition through these difficult times.

"Finally my sincere thanks and gratitude to all our sponsors that have supported us through this period and hopefully it won’t be long until we are welcoming everyone back again.”