At the floodlit all-weather venue of Dundalk Stadium this Wednesday evening, 5th November, an eight-race card will deliver a rich mix of claiming races, maidens and competitive handicaps promising a lively night of action as winter racing gathers momentum. From the 13:45 opener to the 17:20 finale, each contest carries its own telling storyline and the track’s signature Polytrack will reward those who timing and stamina combine in equal measure.
Race 1: The Christmas Party Nights At Dundalk Stadium Claiming Race
Start Time: 13:45 | Distance: 6f | Category: Claiming | Prize Money: €10,000
In the opener, fourteen runners plus one reserve will contest this lively 6-furlong claiming event. The scene will be set for an incisive dash under the lights, and the pace looks likely to be sharp. Among those primed for the fight are AGOSTINO, GREEN ICON and VELVET SKIES, each bringing a degree of freshness or form that suggests they will be right in the thick of it. With many of the field seeking redemption or a breakthrough, expect a thrilling start to the evening.
Race 2: The Celebrate Your Special Occasion At Dundalk Stadium Median Auction Maiden
Start Time: 14:15 | Distance: 6f | Category: Two‐Year‐Old Maiden | Prize Money: €15,000
This early night feature will spotlight future prospects, as twelve 2-year-olds line up at the 6-furlong trip. The stakes are high for newcomers and lightly-experienced types alike. The likes of ALLSORTZ, ARCTIC ASSASSIN and MUSASHI will be under keen observation as they seek to mark themselves out. In a race where improvement is very possible, the crowd will be on tenterhooks watching which juvenile emerges with the requisite pace and composure.
Race 3: The Student Race Day At Dundalk Stadium Maiden
Start Time: 14:45 | Distance: 7f | Category: Maiden | Prize Money: €12,000
With eleven runners tackling the seven-furlong journey, this contest raises the stakes in distance and promise. A demanding test of stamina and speed combined. The contingent including LOCAL LAD, TOKYO TREASURE and WITHOUT LOVE will catch the eye, each saddled with potential and expectation. As they roll down the straight, those with balance, fitness and the will to surge late will stand out in this compelling maiden.
Race 4: The Nursery Handicap
Start Time: 15:15 | Distance: 7f | Category: Nursery Handicap | Prize Money: €11,500
Fourteen entrants will battle for honours in this full-field two-year-old nursery over the 7-furlong trip, a demanding test in its own right. Contestants such as WINGIT, STOLEN TREASURE and WICKLOW GAP will be turning in for a key mid-season effort, and the handicap nature means their tactical position and race execution will count just as much as raw ability. Expect the action to sharpen as the night progresses.
Race 5: The Handicap
Start Time: 15:50 | Distance: 7f | Category: Handicap | Prize Money: €10,000
A competitive handicap over seven furlongs ensures that a wide array of horses can contest with genuine claims. The presence of LEXINGTON DASH, IRISH RUMOUR and NAMMOS highlights the depth of this field, proven competitors capable of making their mark. The key will be who times their run best and who handles straight under lights, this contest could set a production of high drama.
Race 6: The Handicap
Start Time: 16:20 | Distance: 1 m | Category: Handicap | Prize Money: €13,000
The mile distance brings in a fresh dimension of stamina to the night’s programme. Ten runners will tackle this test, and names such as FINSCEAL ANNIE, LITTLE EMPIRE and INSTANT APPEAL are set to headline the action. With the prize money elevated to €13,000, the incentive is strong and those with the ability to finish well over this trip will be primed for a memorable performance.
Race 7: The Handicap (Div I)
Start Time: 16:50 | Distance: 1m 2f 150yds | Category: Handicap | Prize Money: €10,000
A move into the extended distance as this Division I contest opens up. Fourteen runners will venture into the testing 1m 2f 150yds trip, and this is where staying power and race sense will begin to play major roles. Among the names to follow are MISS AUSTRALIE, EIGHTY EIGHT and MS MESSI each expected to figure prominently as the closing stages approach. Expect a tactical battle with finishers primed to strike.
Race 8: The Handicap (Div II)
Start Time: 17:20 | Distance: 1m 2f 150yds | Category: Handicap | Prize Money: €10,000
The final act of the evening remains at the same extended trip and promises to cap the night with pace, stamina and a finish shot under the lights. The field of fourteen will include prospects such as LIMESTONE RED, PORSCHE LAD and BRANDON CREEK each capable of rising to the occasion. As night deepens, the straight will be lit with determination and the last furlong may prove decisive.
Wednesday’s meeting at Dundalk Stadium combines a rich variety of races from sprinters and maidens to extended handicaps all under the unmistakable glow of floodlights. The ever-popularity of all-weather nights here will ensure a vibrant crowd, an engaged atmosphere and plenty of anticipation. Whether you’re following improving juveniles or seasoned handicappers, each race offers its own storyline and opportunity for drama.
As the turf season gives way to the all-weather nights, card will be a testament to the depth and daily vitality of Irish flat racing. Preparation, pace and perseverance will count and those who deliver will leave an impression.
Next up, mark your calendars for Friday, 7 November at Dundalk, where another high-class night of racing is already shaping up.
For full coverage, previews and results stay tuned to RaceBuzz.com.
