The lush plains of CURRAGH RACECOURSE in Kildare will come alive on Sunday, September 28, as racing enthusiasts gather for a day of thrilling 8 flat contests. The spotlight falls on the Friends of the Curragh Irish Cesarewitch, a premier handicap carrying a generous purse, but the supporting races bring fresh talent, rising stars, and competitive sprints that promise excitement for the entire afternoon. From EBF maidens to Group 3 showdowns and the season-closing handicap battles, it’s a celebration of Irish flat racing at its finest.
Race 1: Tote 20K Euros Guaranteed Placepot Today Irish EBF Maiden  (1:30pm, 1m1f)
The opening EBF Maiden sets the stage for young hopefuls looking to make their mark early in their careers. CAPE COD, DOCTOR ANGELICUS and SHARKEYBOY will aim to break through with confidence, while SOUTH ISLAND, VANTAGE CODE and WYMAN could emerge as the one to watch if conditions suit. A perfect race to spot future stars. Winner’s gain: €11,800
Race 2: Fitzpatricks Mercedes-Benz Irish EBF Maiden (2:05pm, 7f)
The EBF Maiden brings together a promising field of newcomers and lightly raced contenders. ADMIRAL WILL BROWN, BELIEVE BELIEVE and DREAM LEGEND will be eager to shed their maiden tag, though IN THE GLOAMING, SUSPICIOUS MINDZ and WHITE SAND BEACH may challenge strongly if they find their rhythm down the straight. Expect a spirited start to the day. Winner’s gain: €11,800
Race 3: Weld Park Stakes (2:37pm, 7f)
A high-quality test for fillies stepping into Group 3 company. BLACK CAVIAR GOLD, ALIBAH and AMELIA EARHART may assert themselves from the start, while ZOUS AND ME, MINERVA and MAGNY COURS could strike late if the pace suits. Expect a captivating finish that could signal future stars. Winner’s gain: €35,400
Race 4: Tote Guarantee, Never Beaten By SP Renaissance Stakes (3:12pm, 6f)
Race four brings seasoned talent into the spotlight, where strategy and stamina are key. MY MATE ALFIE, IDES OF MARCH and BIG GOSSEY may push to dominate early, with FREGADA, BOUNTY and CRESTOFDISTINCTION making their move in the decisive final furlongs. This contest should produce a thrilling spectacle for spectators. Winner’s gain: €35,400
Race 5: Keadeen Hotel Nursery Handicap (3:47pm, 7f)
A chance for promising 2-yr-old juveniles to showcase speed and potential. WHICH WOLF WINS, ECHO OF FAITH and LUNA MIA will aim to make a strong early impression, while SOVEREIGN THOUGHT, SUNRISE ANGEL and ELORA PRINCE could find the extra burst needed to surprise late. A race that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Winner’s gain: €12,390
Race 6: Friends of the Curragh Irish Cesarewitch (Premier Handicap) (4:22pm, 2m170y)
The feature race of the afternoon, the Irish Cesarewitch, promises drama and top-class competition over the extended trip and the high stakes. TOUNSIVATOR, HAPPY PHAROAH and FILEY BAY will look to assert themselves from the outset, with TOO BOSSY FOR US, SHODA and TASHKHAN ready to challenge in the final stages. A race of stamina, strategy, and sheer willpower that could produce a classic finish. Winner’s gain: €324,000
Race 7: Tote Always SP Or Better Maiden (4:57pm, 6f)
Back to maiden action, this race offers one last chance for hopefuls to break through. BENNU, ASTUTE POWER and HARRY LONGABAUGH will press for the lead early, while SPODO KOMODO, GLORY TO BE and EYESFORTHEFUTURE may make a decisive late surge. Expect an engaging contest full of potential surprises. Winner’s gain: €11,800
Race 8: Download The Tote App (Q.R.) Handicap (5:30pm, 1m2f)
The finale brings together experienced campaigners in a handicap for 3-year-olds and older. NO MORE PORTER, POWERFUL HOOK HEAD and VICTORIA KESIA may set the pace from the start, while RED VEIL, DRUCKER and AMONG THE PINES could exploit gaps in the closing stages. A fitting end to a thrilling day of flat racing at Curragh. Winner’s gain: €10,620
From the first EBF maiden to the season-defining Irish Cesarewitch and the closing handicap,, Curragh delivered a perfect blend of drama, strategy, and excitement. Each race had its stories — the rise of new stars, the battle of seasoned runners, and the tension that keeps racing fans enthralled. Sunday, September 28, was a day to remember, highlighting the passion, skill, and spectacle that make Curragh one of Ireland’s premier racing destinations.
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