Tipperary T.D. calls on HRI to step in and save Thurles Racecourse

By Shane Brophy

Tipperary North Independent T.D., Michael Lowry called on Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) and Minister for Agriculture Martin Hayden to step in and save Thurles Racecourse by preserving the site through a lease agreement or purchase.

Earlier today, it was announced that the Molony family, who have operated the Racecourse as the only privately owned track in the country would close with immediate effect, ending almost three-hundred years of racing at the Killinan venue.

“This is a sad, yet understandable decision,” Deputy Lowry said.

“The Molony family gave this very careful consideration and arrived at this decision after much agonising.

“I wish to thank the Molony family for providing and maintaining a wonderful facility through generations. I am fully aware of how difficult it has been to keep standards high and remain financially viable. Riona and the girls have been outstanding custodians of the track since Pierce passed away.

“Regulatory rules, expectations, demands and compliance issues placed a huge burden of pressure, stress, and strain on the owners. In recent years, Riona and the girls invested heavily to improve the facilities.

“Thurles racecourse is renowned for the excellence of the track. It is a proper national hunt track. It is a treasure in the sport of horse racing. It is essential to the racing industry that Horse Racing Ireland step in and ensure its future as a racecourse.”

Reacting to the announcement, Suzanne Eade, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland, said: “Thurles Racecourse has been a cornerstone of the National Hunt programme in Ireland during the winter months, and today’s news was a surprise to everyone in the industry.

“I am sure this announcement was a hugely difficult one for Riona Molony, and her daughters Patricia, Helen, Ann Marie and Kate, and I respect their decision to take a step back from running racing at Thurles.

“Riona’s husband Pierce contributed significantly to the Irish racing industry for many years and the Molony family, led by Riona, certainly stepped up following his untimely passing.

“I will be seeking a meeting with the Molony family in the near future to discuss their position.”