Punchestown Racecourse, Ireland’s home of great jump racing, is all set to stage eight competitive races on 16 September. Known for its sweeping track, testing fences, and thrilling finishes, Punchestown always offers drama and excitement for racing fans. This meeting brings a mix of maiden hurdles, handicaps, and chases, giving runners of all levels a chance to shine and setting the stage for a memorable afternoon.
Race 1: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Maiden (1:48pm, 1m30y)
The afternoon opens with a maiden race with winning prize worth € 10,620, where BALLAGHKEEN, CHICAGO MOON and IFWEONLYHAVELOVE look ready to make a bold bid for a breakthrough win, while ZERMATT STAR, WHITE SAND BEACH and LOOKINGFORARAINBOW could come on strongly if they settle into rhythm early. A perfect way to start the card.
Race 2:Â Punchestown Is Back Maiden (2:18pm, 1m30y)
The second race brings 2-yr-olds forward with winning prize € 8,850 on the line. ADMIRAL WILL BROWN, BACK STRAIGHT and KANZASHI appear nicely placed, but FIOR BHUIOCH, RESURGENCE and PARTY WITH MARTY are not far behind and could make this a close-run affair.
Race 3: Nostra Supporting Laois GAA Handicap (2:48pm, 1m30y)
Next up is a race of 3-yr-olds and over, which should provide plenty of jumping action. DARK VIPER, FACETHEPUCKOUT and SUNRISEONTHEBOYNE seem primed for a big run, with BRANDON CREEK, FERRYBANK and ENCHANTED GARDEN likely to be right in contention turning for home. Winner pool: €7,670
Race 4: Hospitality On Sale Now Race (3:18pm, 1m1f58y)
The fourth race, with € 10,030 up for the winner, lines up 3-yr-olds and over for an interesting mid-card clash. BARBIZON, COEUR D’OR and GREY LEADER look to hold strong claims, but LIPS FREEDOM, HEISELECTRIC and BIRTHE could spring a surprise if they handle the track well.
Race 5: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Median Auction Maiden (3:48pm, 1m1f58y)
The fifth race sees maidens aged 3 and over line up where GALLEY POINT, GLENEVIES and NO SUCH THING could set the pace. BRIGHT NIGHT, OBSCENITY and SUNLIGHT DANCE might be the one to watch late, adding an element of suspense to this contest. Winner pool: €9,440
Race 6: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Fillies Handicap (4:18pm, 1m1f58y)
The sixth race brings competitive fillies aged 3 and over up for clash with € 9,440 as winning purse. DANCING TEAPOT, PRESENCE and THRIFTY OF DIGBY are among the key players, with KATHERINE, BOOGIE INTHEJUNGLE, GOD KNOWS and a dozen others looking to challenge hard over the final jumps.
Race 7: See You On The 14th & 15th October Handicap (Div I) (4:48pm, 1m1f58y)
The penultimate event of the day is a race that could produce a thrilling finish with €5,900 up for grabs. GOLDSMITH, MOGWLI and SEA VIEW LADY  will look to go all out before the finale, with EXPLORERS WAY, DONT DO DRAMAS, THE BLACK STUFF and several others hoping to spoil the party.
Race 8: See You On The 14th & 15th October Handicap (Div II) (5:18pm, 1m1f58y)
The finale sees a € 5,900 worth clash of 3-yr-olds and over where SUPER EXCEED, TRISHULI RIVER and DESERT OF THE SEA aim to close the meeting on a winning note, while CRACKLES, DELUCA CHOP, MISS AMERICANA and others will hope to deliver one final twist. A great way to end the afternoon’s action.
With the final race run, Punchestown once again showcases why it is such a beloved venue for jumps racing. From the early hurdles to the closing chase, the day is sure to offer drama, surprises, and performances worth remembering — the perfect recipe for a classic Irish racing afternoon.
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