Bumper prize fund announced for Mayo National
At the launch of McHale Raceday at Ballinrobe Race course were, from left, racecourse manager John Flannelly, committee member Sean O'Connell, Padraic McHale, MD, McHale, Kenneth Murphy, racecourse chairman, and Sinead McGrath, committee member. Picture: Trish Forde
McHale Raceday, a highlight in the Ballinrobe Racecourse racing calendar, is gearing up for an exciting evening on Monday, May 27 – one that is sure to set pulses racing. The feature race, the listed McHale Mayo National, will now boast an impressive prize fund of €100,000, marking yet another increase in the riches of this prestigious race held in Ballinrobe.
McHale Raceday kicks off the first day of the two-day May meeting featuring the esteemed McHale Mayo National, the McHale Mayo Hurdle and the McHale Tiger Roll Beginners Handicap Hurdle, promising a day filled with excitement and fierce competition.
Now celebrating its eleventh year, McHale Raceday owes its success to the steadfast support of Ballinrobe Racecourses’ esteemed neighbours, McHale. Their unwavering commitment has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of this race meeting, and it is thanks to their continued support that the high-calibre race that is the McHale Mayo National is made possible at Ballinrobe John Flannelly, Racecourse Manager, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to McHale for their ongoing support. Their dedication has been instrumental in the success of McHale Raceday, and we are truly grateful for their partnership. It is great to see the McHale Mayo National reach a prize fund of €100,000.” Padraic McHale, Managing Director, commented: “McHale Race Day is now in its eleventh year running and it has gone from strength to strength since our sponsorship began.
“A credit has to be given to John and his team at Ballinrobe Racecourse for all their efforts on and off the track,” added McHale, saying that the increased fund for the Mayo National should hopefully attract the best of horses and a big crowd.
In 2023, the McHale Mayo National was won by the Gordon Elliot-trained Tullybeg, ridden by recently crowned Champion Conditional jockey, Danny Gilligan. On the day, Mystical Power, the first foal of Annie Power, triumphantly debuted and has since secured victory in two prestigious Grade One races at Aintree and Punchestown.
The action-packed seven-race card on McHale Raceday is scheduled to commence at 4:30pm with Rasai Beo, TG4, broadcasting live, allowing fans from all corners to witness the thrill of the day firsthand.
