Join the DOWN ROYAL RACECOURSE in Northern Ireland for the first day of the Festival of Racing – Day 1 on Friday, October 31st, where seven spirited contests unfold from 1:02pm to 4:20pm. Set in the heart of the Ulster countryside, this meeting blends high-quality National Hunt action with a welcoming atmosphere. The card features runners aged four and older, moving through hurdles, chases and ending with a flat race — giving a full picture of the jump-season’s breadth and promise.
Race 1: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle (1:02pm, 2m6f110y)
The meeting opens with an EBF maiden hurdle for four-year-olds and up, providing a platform for hopeful newcomers to show their credentials. KAISER DE CHANAY, MOUNT MANDELA and THEFLYINGKING may look to settle into rhythm over the flights, while LIGHT HER UP, VENTUREVANGO and ARTIC CHIEF could make an impression if they handle the going and the early pace. It’s a gentle but important introduction to the day’s jumps. Winner’s gain: €8,850
Race 2: Lough Construction Ltd. Handicap Hurdle (1:32pm, 3m30y)
Next up is a handicap hurdle, where form, fitness and fluent jumping all count. ANNIE AGNEW, JETAWAY NANA and CHANCEAWETMORNING may use recent experience to stay prominent, while MIDLETON RARE, CHASING CROWNS and GLAOINN AN AIRGEAD might be the improver ready to put it all together on a good surface. Expect a steady test of stamina and convertibility. Winner’s gain: €5,900
Race 3: Irish Stallion Farms EBF Feathard Lady Mares Novice Hurdle (Grade 3) (2:02pm, 2m190y)
The afternoon’s feature first glimmer arrives with the Grade 3 EBF Mares Hurdle, exclusively for mares aged four and over. CARRIGMOORNASPRUCE, CAMELETTA VEGA and FULL OF LIFE may carry proven form and look to dominate from the front, and GETAWAY BEO, HIGH NOTIONS and PAMPAR LADY could upset if she shows she’s ready to step up. This race often gives a clue to the season ahead. Winner’s gain: €19,175
Race 4: bottlegreen Hurdle (Listed Race) (2:37pm, 2m190y)
Continuing the quality theme, this Listed hurdle invites serious contenders in the 4YO+ category. THE YELLOW CLAY, CASHELDALE LAD and BACCHANALIAN might use previous top-level outings to assert control, while ROYAL HOLLOW and EYE OF A TIGER could thrive if they’ve been peaking for this moment. A race where class may well dictate the outcome. Winner’s gain: €29,500
Race 5: SIS, Supporting Irish Racing Handicap Chase (3:12pm, 2m100y)
We shift to fences now in a handicap chase for four-year-olds and up, where jumping and speed combine. SOLSBURY HILL, MONEY HEIST and NO FLIES ON HIM may press forward confidently from the jump, and TRASNA NA PAIRCE, SOMEONE’S WISH and SPLASHING OUT could benefit from a well-timed effort if the early battle softens. A transition race from hurdle to chase appeal. Winner’s gain: €8,555
Race 6: Beginners Chase (3:47pm, 2m3f192y)
Another chase contest, this time for runners just beginning their steeplechasing careers but aged four and up. ROMEO COOLIO, WHERE’S MY JET and KOKTAIL DIVIN may be fit and ready to take on the test of the fences, while PATTER MERCHANT, CRESCENT MOON and GOLDEN TEMPLE could shine if they settle and find their stride late. A key race for spotting emerging talent. Winner’s gain: €6,490
Race 7: WTW Willis INH Flat Race (4:20pm, 2m190y)
To round off the card, we move back to the flat with an event for four-year-olds and older, adding variety and a final flourish. BALLYEDWARD, CHICHESTER PARK and PANJANDRUM may enjoy the change of surface and gallop clear, while HOPEFUL HERO and SKERRY HILL could close strongly if they’ve used their preparation wisely. A fitting finale to a well-balanced afternoon. Winner’s gain: €6,490
Today’s array of hurdles, chases and a flat event capture the spirit of the National Hunt season in full bloom — experienced campaigners and rising stars sharing the stage in a vibrant racing environment. As the Festival continues tomorrow, the stories formed today may well carry into the deeper challenges ahead.
For full coverage and updates on global racing events, stay tuned to RaceBuzz.
