The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is the highlight of the Irish sporting and social calendar.
The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is considered the grande finale of the jump season with top class horses, trainers and jockeys from both sides of the Irish sea converging on the Kildare venue to settle scores and confirm reputations. The quality of racing is unrivalled with a total of 11 Grade 1 contests taking place. Punchestown is proud to be the home of Irish National Hunt Racing and host the famous La Touche Cup, a spectators favourite run over the cross country course. It's a "must see" for any racing fan.
Tuesday: Boylesports.com Champion Chase Day.
The opening day is a feast for racing fans with three Grade 1 races including the feature Boylesports.com Champion Chase. In addition there are two other Grade 1 races, the Evening Herald Champion Novice Hurdle over 2 miles and the Growise Novice Chase over 3 miles. There are 7 races this day.
Wednesday: The Punchestown Gold Cup Day
The highlight of the chase calendar with the Grade 1 3mile Gold Cup. This also features the Paddy Power Champion Bumper and the Grade A Handicap Chase over 2 miles 4 furlongs.
Thursday: The Ladbrokes.com World Series Hurdle Day
This day includes two Grade 1 races including the Ladbrokes World Series Hurdle and the Ryanair Novice Chase over 2 miles not to mention the famous La Touche Cross Country race.
Friday: Rabobank Champion Hurdle day
The jewel in the crown of the Festival. A favourite with race goers, locals and socialisers alike. This day gets the biggest crowds and has a real party atmosphere.
Saturday: Champion 4 year old Hurdle Day
Since its introduction as a Festival day the Saturday has become the second biggest day of the entire festival. The focus is on youth with the Champion 4 year old hurdle being the future race. The Junior Jockey Fun Club is also available that day with Pony Rides, face painting, bouncy castles and so much more. A favourite with locals and families and always has a great atmosphere.
