IN PICTURES: Family fun and oodles of style at Punchestown in Kildare
Thousands of punters flocked to the Kildare track
Across 40 races, leading Irish and British competitors contested a record €3.6 million prize fund at Punchestown.
Co Kildare Chamber president Ruth Murphy said: “Across our towns and villages, local hotels, restaurants, retailers and service providers see a real and meaningful boost during festival week and that is what makes it such a vital week for the local economy.”
Punchestown CEO Conor O’Neill said: “The Punchestown Festival is big business, has a huge economic impact of over €70 million, boosts tourism by filling every hotel room in the region and attracts international interest from as far as the USA and Australia.”
Corporate hospitality has already sold out for midweek, with more than 24,000 guests from 800 companies expected to attend. Alongside the racing, the festival will feature live music, style competitions, and new attractions including the Kildare Village Grand Pavilion and expanded family entertainment zones. Punters were urged to use public transport, particularly on the busiest day – Friday.