Announcing a new initiative in the promotion of Naas town as it joins forces with Punchestown Racecourse to celebrate the 2012 Irish National Hunt Festival.
From the 24th April almost 100,000 people will descend on Punchestown and the surrounding areas to attend the highlight of the Irish sporting calendar. This joint initiative represents an enormous opportunity to reinforce the attractiveness of Naas town as a post race day venue and also as a long term tourist destination.
It will act as a reminder that Naas Town offers the complete tourist experience.
An intensive marketing campaign, created in co–operation with County Kildare Fáilte, is being implemented and will include signage, advertising, parade ring interviews and announcements. The extended partnership with County Kildare Fáilte reinforces the current “Into Kildare – It’s All Here” campaign, which is now getting significant recognition both nationally and internationally
Councillor Willie Callaghan, Mayor of Naas, welcomed the announcement by saying "The town council is proud to support the Punchestown Racing Festival which is one of the most prestigious racing festivals in the country, and attracts visitors to Naas from home and abroad. Naas looks forward to strengthening its partnership with Punchestown which aligns our local town with an exciting and internationally recognised event. Naas welcomes all local, national, and international racing fans and their families to Naas for the festival. "
Earlier this year Punchestown published a report detailing the economic contribution of the 2011 Festival. The key findings included an amazing spend of €24.8 million outside the racecourse on accommodation, food, drink and entertainment. Perhaps one of the most interesting figures was the phenomenal €7 million that is spent on fashion for the festival. In addition 20% of those in attendance are overseas visitors who require accommodation and entertainment for the duration of their visit. Average visits are two or three days and nights. These statistics are very encouraging for the restaurant, pub, hotel, salon and boutique businesses of Naas.
Naas business man Liam Queally said “The Punchestown festival attracts huge crowds both nationally and internationally and offers Naas a unique opportunity to showcase what the town has to offer. During festival week just under 100,000 people are in the Naas area to enjoy themselves so it is an ideal time to get involved and create what should be a mutually beneficial event. We are proud to sponsor at the festival as it is a major event that attracts attention both at home and abroad. This initiative makes real sense for the business community of Naas”.
Liam Holton, Punchestown Marketing Director commenting on the initiative said “Naas town is the ideal partner for the Punchestown festival given the high standard of goods and services available. Whether it is style and fashion in preparation for the races or a great meal and entertainment after racing Naas has it all. The festival attracts huge numbers from all around Ireland and further afield so it makes sense that we work together to make their racing experience a memorable one and promote the town of Naas and all that it has to offer.”
The Punchestown festival takes place from Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th April 2012. Admission available from just €20 with all inclusive group packages starting at €19pp. Visit www.punchestown.com for further information