Punchestown Racecourse will take centre stage on Monday, January 26, as Ireland’s winter jumping calendar rolls forward with a thoughtfully balanced seven-race programme scheduled from 1:10pm to 4:10pm. The afternoon will be shaped by depth rather than spectacle, with the Rated Novice Hurdle (Race 5) standing out as the feature contest of the day, offering €16,000 in prize money and a valuable opportunity for emerging talent to stake a serious claim in the novice ranks.
The meeting will open at 1:10pm with Race 1, the Graduation Series Maiden Hurdle, a 4yo+ contest run over 2 miles. With a sizeable field of 16 runners facing nine hurdles for €12,000, the opener will immediately test both discipline and composure, as inexperienced hurdlers look to find rhythm in competitive surroundings. Early mistakes could prove costly, making this an absorbing start to the card.
Attention will then turn to Race 2, the Handicap Hurdle, scheduled for 1:40pm. Restricted to 4yo runners, the 2-mile contest will feature seven runners negotiating nine hurdles for €14,500. With weights in play and limited margins expected, tactical riding and accurate jumping will be central to success.
Depth will increase significantly in Race 3, the Graduation Series Mares Maiden Hurdle, which is set for 2:10pm. Run over 2 miles 3 furlongs, the race will bring together a large field of 18 runners over 11 hurdles, all chasing €12,000. The extended trip and field size will demand stamina and patience, particularly through the closing stages.
The mid-card will tighten in Race 4, the Graduation Series (C & G) Maiden Hurdle, a 4yo+ contest at 2:40pm over 2 miles 3 furlongs. With just five runners tackling 11 hurdles for €12,000, the race will offer a more tactical tempo, placing emphasis on positioning and timing rather than survival.
The meeting’s focal point will arrive at 3:10pm with Race 5, the Rated Novice Hurdle, the feature race of the day. Open to 5yo+ runners, the contest will cover 2 miles 3 furlongs, with six runners facing 11 hurdles for a €16,000 prize fund. Quality rather than quantity will define this race, as novice hurdlers with proven ability are expected to use the platform to signal readiness for stronger company.
Contenders: I’m Slippy, Parnell Street, Shuttle Diplomacy, Spinningayarn, Holy See, Bokamsin
Late-afternoon challenges will continue in Race 6, the Handicap Hurdle, run at 3:40pm. Open to 4yo+ runners, the 2 miles 3 furlongs contest will feature 10 runners and 11 hurdles, with €10,000 on offer, promising a competitive and closely matched affair.
The curtain will fall at 4:10pm with Race 7, the Handicap Hurdle, a searching 2 miles 7 furlongs test for 5yo+ runners. With 14 runners, 13 hurdles, and €10,000 in prize money, stamina and resolve will be decisive, providing a fitting conclusion to the afternoon.
Punchestown Racecards 26 January will reflect the essence of winter hurdle racing, testing balance, endurance, and progression. From large maiden fields to the feature novice contest, the card will offer a clear pathway of development and a compelling afternoon for jump racing followers.
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