The Curragh Racecourse Launches Ireland’s First Permanent Sensory Room at a Racecourse

Kildare, Ireland — The Curragh Racecourse is thrilled to announce the opening of its brand-new sensory room, marking a milestone as the first racecourse in Ireland to offer a permanent, purpose-built space designed to support neurodivergent children and their families. The official launch of The Curragh’s Sensory Room took place during the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Weekend, one of the most prestigious fixtures in The Curragh’s racing calendar.  MEP Nina Carberry, Racing Legend Johnny Murtagh and Brian Kavanagh CEO of The Curragh Racecourse joined local GAA group for all abilities, Moorefield Heroes to officially open The Sensory Unit at The Curragh.

This Sensory Room at The Curragh will be available on all racedays throughout the season, providing a calm, safe, and inclusive environment where individuals with sensory processing needs can take a break from the bustling race day atmosphere. The space is equipped with soft furnishings, mood lighting, tactile wall panels, and interactive elements—all designed to help reduce anxiety and encourage comfort and regulation.

This project is part of The Curragh’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in horse racing. The development of the sensory room was made possible with the support of many including William Buick and his wife, Jane, along with Autism in Racing founder Bobby Beevers. The room was created By The Curragh Racecourse in collaboration with community partners, including Sensational Kids, and suppliers Sensory House and Self Contained, with the purpose-built unit being sourced from them, alongside the contributions of Eamonn Sheridan Groundworks Ltd.

Brian Kavanagh, CEO of The Curragh Racecourse, commented, “we are incredibly proud to be the first racecourse in Ireland to offer a permanent sensory room. Horse racing should be a sport for all, and we want to ensure that families who might otherwise feel excluded can enjoy a day at the races in a way that feels comfortable and welcoming.”

William Buick, professional jockey and ambassador for Autism in Racing, added, “It’s fantastic to see a permanent sensory room open at The Curragh. Creating more inclusive spaces at racecourses is so important. Families with neurodivergent children deserve the same opportunity to enjoy a day at the races, and this room makes that possible. The Curragh is leading the way in Ireland, and I’m sure other racecourses will follow in their footsteps.”

Keith O’Grady, Managing Director of Sensory House Ltd., added:
“We are truly proud to have worked with The Curragh, who showed incredible dedication in creating this stunning sensory room. There was a huge amount of work involved, and they welcomed our guidance every step of the way—making it a truly rewarding collaboration. This thoughtfully designed multi-sensory space aims to calm and regulate users of all ages, featuring a dark den, sensory seating area, and interactive panels, all crafted to provide a safe, immersive, and supportive environment. We hope everyone who visits finds it beneficial and comforting.”

Sean Moran, Managing Director of Self Contained Ltd, said:
“We are thrilled to unveil the new Sensory Room at The Curragh Racecourse. This space, designed with care and thoughtfulness, will support the unique needs of every child. At Self Contained Ltd., we specialize in building affordable modular homes using shipping containers, and we are proud to have used the same innovative materials to create this incredible space. A heartfelt thank you to The Curragh team for their vision and collaboration in bringing this special project to life.”

Karen Leigh, CEO Sensational Kids, said: “I’d like to congratulate the team at the Curragh Racecourse for taking this important step toward inclusion with the launch of its new sensory room.  It will make a real difference for children who have sensory and additional needs by offering a calm and reassuring environment when they need time to themselves.  This space will make the Curragh Racecourse more accessible and less stressful for all neurodiverse visitors and their families, allowing families to enjoy race days knowing they have access to a safe place.”

~ ENDS ~

For further press information, please contact Marie Brennan at Cut Through PR on [email protected] or 086 3566062