The Curragh will launch the new 2026 flat season this Sunday 15th March with a packed programme of eight races, featuring the Nua Healthcare Irish Lincolnshire, as part of their St Patrick’s Festival Race Day.
The €100,000 feature has attracted 30 entries following this morning’s entry stage, including Curragh specialist Big Gossey who is set to carry top weight. The Charles O’Brien trained performer will be running at the County Kildare track for the 50th time and has won eight times. Other notable contenders include Norwalk Havoc, Mississippi River, Crypto Force, Highbury See See, 2025 Irish Lincolnshire winer Olandi and Whip Cracker, trained in Britain by Richard Hughes.
The Topgear at Capital Stud has produced some high quality individuals with the three previous winners Bucanero Fuerte, Arizona Blaze and Power Blue all subsequently achieving Group 1 race success. Trainer Robson Aguiar, who has been associated with the last three winners, will be well represented in the five furlongs contest with an impressive seven entries.
There are 23 entries in the Nua CLaD Maiden, 21 entries in the Nua Mobile Sensory Units Handicap, 11 entries in the Nua Canine Therapy Handicap, while the Mental Health Matters Maiden has attracted 21 entries and there are 29 entries in the Final Furlong Podcast with 1xBet.ie Handicap and 34 entries in the 1xBet supports Irish Racing Handicap.
Track – Racing on stand side with stalls in center.
Ground – Following 2mm of rain overnight, the ground is Heavy, soft to heavy in places
Forecast – Showers today, mainly dry tomorrow, more persistent rain on Thursday
Entries – Microsoft Word – 2026_ONOR055
Declared runners Friday at 10am
Gates open 12 noon with first race at 1.25pm and final race at 5.30pm
Where to watch – all races broadcast live on Racing TV
Entertainment – Plenty of free activities for younger racegoers throughout the afternoon with one or two Mother’s Day treats to enjoy!
