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COLM COOPER will be feted at the opener to the four-day Killarney Races July festival this evening, with the first of seven races commencing at 6pm.

This evening's programme will feature a very special celebration in honour of the Kerry football great with a race named after Colm taking place at 8pm as Killarney Race Company pays tribute to the holder of five All-Ireland medals, one All-Ireland Club title and an incredible eight All-Star awards.

A racing highlight tonight will be the Cairn Rouge Stakes – a listed race – worth €55,000.

Another evening of great racing will follow tomorrow, Tuesday, with locals and visitors from all around the globe expected to flock to the Ross Road track where the atmosphere is matched only by the spectacular views at Ireland’s most scenic racecourse. Tuesday’s highlight out on the course will be the Richard and Mary Butler Memorial Handicap Steeplechase (Grade B) worth €50,000.

There will be added glamour on Wednesday – another evening meeting – when several of this year’s Rose of Tralee finalists will mingle with the racegoers, posing for selfies and signing autographs as a little bit of festival fever transfers from Tralee to Killarney.

Stylish ladies take note – Thursday, July 20, is set to be one of the most eagerly anticipated of the year as it’s Dawn Milk Ladies Day at Killarney Races. Champion dancer and Kerry GAA hero Aidan O’Mahony will join top Irish model and fellow Dancing With The Stars contestant Thalia Heffernan as the celebrity adjudicators and the judging process will commence at 2pm sharp.

The Queen of Fashion winner will receive a trip for two to Paris while the best-dressed gent will win a trip for two to Milan.

Admission prices are €20 for the evening meetings on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and €25 on ladies day on Thursday. Concessions are available for students and OAPs and children under the age of 12 will be admitted free of charge if accompanied by an adult.

To ensure an even more wonderful experience at the races, special hospitality packages are available so that guests can enjoy fine food, fine wines and a great atmosphere while viewing the action from the VIP grandstands. For restaurant and barbecue packages call 064-6631125.
 

 
Above: Colm Cooper. PICTURE: EAMONN KEOGH