Belclare Point-to-Point set to thrill racegoers
THE North Galway Hunt Annual Point-to-Point will take place on Sunday in Belclare and once again promises to be one of the highlights of the local sporting calendar.
Belclare has earned a strong national reputation, particularly through its' four-year-old maiden, which has produced an exceptional roll of honour over the years. Among its graduates are three-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Best Mate, The Thinker, Topofthegame and Grand National winner Minella Times who famously carried Rachael Blackmore to victory in 2021.
The race continues to showcase future stars. The 2024 four-year-old maiden winner Romeo Coolio, trained by Donnchadh Doyle, achieved the highest price at the Cheltenham Sales that week, selling for £420,000 to trainer Gordon Elliott on behalf of the KTDA Racing Syndicate. Now highly regarded under rules, he is another example of the quality of horses that emerge from the Belclare track.
The first of six races goes to post at 1 o'clock at the Belclare venue on land kindly provided by Michael Cunningham. Entries are expected from leading handlers from all over Ireland, ensuring competitive racing and an exciting afternoon for racegoers.
The continued success of the Belclare meeting is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the North Galway Point-to-Point Committee, who each year ensure the event is safe, well run and enjoyable for participants and spectators alike. The committee wishes to thank the Turf Club and the many local businesses who generously support the meeting through race card advertising and sponsorship.
The committee is chaired by John Glynn, with Nora Reynolds and Brona Mooney acting as joint honorary secretaries. Tom Morrin and Noel Keane serve as joint treasurers. Numerous other volunteers also contribute greatly to the organisation of the day. The Clerk of the Course is Jackie Lee.
A special word of thanks is extended to the race sponsors McHales, Tattersalls, Canavan’s Pub, Aran Island Knitwear, Carey’s Building Contractors and Jim Derwin Equestrian. One of the races, kindly sponsored by Hunt Master William Donnellan and his wife Laura, will be run in memory of the late John Morris of Belclare, who passed away on August 7, 2025.
The Belclare Point-to-Point is always a fantastic social as well as sporting occasion, attracting families, racing enthusiasts and members of the wider community. With competitive racing, a welcoming atmosphere and perhaps a glimpse of future Cheltenham and Grand National winners, it promises to be a memorable day for all.