Memorable Night at Ballinrobe Racecourse as 2025 Season Ends in Style

Despite a wet evening, a great crowd once again turned out for the season finale at Ballinrobe Racecourse on Friday, September 13th. The meeting brought the 2025 season to a close with plenty of excitement, memorable victories and a fitting tribute to one of Ballinrobe’s longest-serving racing officials.

The opening race of the evening, The Burkes Clonbur 3-Y-O Maiden Hurdle, provided the first big cheer of the night when Sopelana landed the spoils for trainer Cian Collins at 12/1. Ridden by Jordan Gainford, the improving youngster stormed home by four and three-quarter lengths, bouncing back impressively from a sixth-place finish at Ballinrobe just a month earlier. The victory was a memorable one for broadcaster Hector Ó hEochagáin and Mayo GAA coach Paddy Tally, who are part of the Tally’s Bar Syndicate.

Hector, present to witness the win, recalled his last Ballinrobe triumph over two decades ago with Traverse in August 2003, a horse featured in the well-known documentary Only Fools Buy Horses.
“Ballinrobe is a great racecourse, and it will always hold great memories for me,” he said. “It’s where Traverse won, and to come back 22 years later and have another winner is very special.”

Later in the evening, the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Chase went the way of Howya Luveen, trained by Ross O’Sullivan and ridden to an impressive six-length victory by John Shinnick. The Downtown Syndicate, which includes long-time race sponsors Gary and Rob Monroe of Monroe’s in Galway, were thrilled to celebrate their winner at a track where they have supported racing for many years.

The feature contest, the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Handicap Hurdle, was claimed by World of Fortunes at 6/1 for trainer Liam Kenny and jockey Tiernan Power Roche, adding further quality to an already lively evening of action.

Beyond the racing itself, the meeting was a particularly significant one for Clerk of the Course, Lorcan Wyer, who oversaw his final fixture at Ballinrobe after more than 20 years of service. He was honoured on the evening with a presentation from the track team, led by Cathal Flannelly (Track Manager) and John Flannelly (Racecourse Manager).

“Lorcan’s guidance and experience have been invaluable for over two decades,” said Cathal Flannelly. “His steady hand and commitment to safety have left a lasting mark on Ballinrobe and Irish racing. We are deeply grateful for everything he has done and wish him every success in the future.”

The 2025 season concluded on a high, with groups travelling from across the West to attend, and while the weather was less than kind, it did little to dampen the renowned Ballinrobe atmosphere.

Reflecting on the season, Racecourse Manager John Flannelly described 2025 as a strong year for the track: “We are delighted with an increase in our attendance figures this year. We were very lucky with the weather for most days and, despite the rain on Friday evening last, we were thrilled to welcome another fantastic crowd. I would like to thank all our staff for their time, dedication, and effort throughout the season—their hard work makes everything possible. I would also like to thank our loyal racegoers, who create the atmosphere Ballinrobe is famous for.”

John added “I am also sorry to see Lorcan Wyer retire from his role as Clerk of the Course. He has been here for nearly the majority of my time as manager and we have built a great working relationship. Lorcan will be missed by all the track staff, and his guidance, professionalism, and friendship over the years have played a huge part in Ballinrobe’s success.

“2025 was not without its challenges, but planning and preparation for the 2026 season is already well underway, and we are very much looking forward to it.”

Ballinrobe’s 2026 fixture list will be announced shortly, but for now, the curtain comes down on a memorable 2025 season—one that combined wonderful racing stories on the track, community spirit off it, and the promise of more to come next year.