Set against the scenic backdrop of the Comeragh Mountains, CLONMEL RACECOURSE in County Tipperary welcomes racegoers for an afternoon of thrilling jumps on October 2. From 2:15pm to 5:35pm, seven exciting contests will unfold, each offering a mix of courage, stamina, and sheer heart. Known for its testing undulations and loyal local crowd, Clonmel’s track always delivers drama, determination, and the kind of atmosphere that defines true Irish racing.
Race 1: Slievenamon Claiming Hurdle (2:15pm, 2m4f35y)
The day begins with a claiming hurdle that opens the gates for seasoned runners aged 4 and up looking to prove their mettle early. WOODSTREAM LAD, AHEAD OF THE POSSE and SPRING MEADOW should relish the conditions and try to dictate the tempo, while ANYSIGNOFHIM, CAFE CON LECHE and OH SO CHARMING may bide their time for a late charge. Expect this opener to bring the perfect balance of grit and strategy. Winner’s gain: €5,900
Race 2: Kilmore Maiden Hurdle (2:50pm, 2m4f35y)
Next up, maiden hurdlers step forward in search of their first career breakthrough. COURT CANYON, SHING SHANG LILY and KATIE DANIELS will look to grab attention from the outset, but MOONONTHEBAY, MY BOY CHRISTY and HERCRAZYSBEAUTIFUL could quietly build momentum before making a statement over the final jumps. This one promises an emotional win for whichever hopeful finally gets their moment. Winner’s gain: €5,900
Race 3: Derrinlaur Mares Handicap Hurdle (3:25pm, 2m4f35y)
The mares take center stage in the third race, bringing both elegance and power to the course. JEANIEMACARONEY, SPICK AND SPAN and CHOSEN SHANT may try to take control early, though LEAH’S CONTESSA, CATHRYNS RUBY and INCHIQUIN STAR can never be ruled out if stamina becomes the decider. It’s a contest where determination meets grace – a race sure to draw warm applause from the stands. Winner’s gain: €8,555
Race 4: Ravens Rock Novice Handicap Hurdle (3:55pm, 2m4f35y)
Competition tightens as the handicap hurdlers enter the fray. HOPE SHE FLIES, JAADIL and BACKWITHYOUROWN might aim to set the pace and hold it firm, but PERFECTWAY, MIDNIGHT EAGLE and THEANNIVERSARY MAN looks poised to pounce if the tempo suits. Expect tight finishes and fierce battles right to the final stride. Winner’s gain: €5,900
Race 5: Glenary Handicap Hurdle (4:25pm, 2m6f170y)
Another handicap follows, keeping the energy alive as the afternoon deepens. WING BACK, COFFEYS FORGE and TEDWORTH will try to maintain rhythm over the demanding course, with LADY NIGHTINGALE, DARK BERKSHIRE and SCOTTISH DANCER lurking for a strong late run. This race should showcase tactical riding and the kind of thrilling finish Clonmel is known for. Winner’s gain: €5,900
Race 6: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Captain Christy Rated Novice Chase (5:00pm, 3miles)
The excitement lifts again with the feature event and the richest race of the day, EBF Novice Chase, where promising chasers step up to test their potential. OCEAN OF MERCY, WHAT’S UP DARLING and BALTIC BIRD could take an early initiative over the fences, while CHINX OF LIGHT, AMBITIOUS FELLOW and HO MY LORD may wait for the perfect moment to strike. A race for the brave, it might just reveal a future star in the making. Winner’s gain: €11,800
Race 7: Tickincor Handicap Chase (5:35pm, 2m2f141y)
The finale brings the handicap chasers to the spotlight, closing the afternoon on a gripping note. TOON TOWN, ANDYOURBIRDCANSING and SEA OF DOUBT should look comfortable on the track’s testing turns, but THE EYE OF TULLA, KEEP D CHANGE and ESTICKY END could upset the rhythm if their timing clicks perfectly. It’s a fitting end to a day that blends the heart of Irish jump racing with the warmth and passion that Clonmel always delivers. Winner’s gain: €5,900
As the sun sets over the Tipperary hills, Clonmel leaves racegoers with memories only true jump racing can create — brave runs, battling finishes, and the unmistakable warmth of Irish sport. From the first hurdle to the final fence, every stride carried grit and grace in equal measure. It’s not just another race day; it’s Clonmel — where heart meets heritage, and every leap tells a story worth remembering.
Read more detailed previews and race updates at RaceBuzz.
