The Curragh Racecourse is set to stage the first Amateur Riders Derby as part of the Autumn Festival of Racing on Saturday 11th September. The race over 14 furlongs will have a total prize fund of €56,000 and will be open to all qualified riders.
The race is an exciting addition to an established international star studded program featuring The Irish Field St Leger and Group 1 National Stakes
Paul Hensey, Racecourse General Manager commented, “We are delighted to support this initiative which will be the fourth Derby to take place at the Curragh this year and we will work closely with the Qualified Riders Association to ensure we maximise all potential to attract the most competitive field of runners possible,” he added, “We plan to make the race a permanent feature of the weekend which combines exceptional racing with great fashion, food and fun over two days.”
“We are very grateful to the Curragh for agreeing to stage the first Amateur Riders Derby, which will raise the profile of our association and give riders a huge thrill to be able to take part in a race on such a prestigious day” said Ross O’Sullivan Chairman of the Qualified Riders Association
The County Kildare venue already stages the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, Derrinstown Stud Apprentice Derby and Thalgo Ladies Derby.