Irish rugby star launches giveaway prize at Naas Racecourse

Naas native and Irish rugby star Jamie Osborne visited Naas Racecourse in Co Kildare to help launch its biggest ever race-day giveaway, offering one lucky racegoer the chance to win €10,000 on the track’s flagship day of the year - the Grade 1 Ballymore Novice Hurdle & Winter Best Dressed Day.

On Sunday 4th January 2026, every adult racegoer attending Naas Racecourse has the chance to enter into a special draw for the €10,000 prize. A sweepstake will take place on the day, with names drawn for each horse in one of the races. The racegoer whose name is paired with the winning horse will walk away with €10,000 – a prize of a lifetime.

Jamie Osborne, Leinster and Irish International Rugby Player, said: “I love racing at Naas whenever I get the chance and it’s great to see Naas putting on such a fantastic prize for racegoers, and just being here on the day could land someone a really big win.”

Naas Racecourse, General Manager, Aidan McGarry said, “This is the biggest giveaway we’ve ever staged at Naas, and we’re delighted to offer our racegoers the chance to win €10,000 on what is already one of the most exciting days in our calendar. With top-class racing, fantastic entertainment, and a prize to kick start the new year in style, it’s a day not to be missed.”

Racegoers are encouraged to arrive early on the day for a special edition of Paddy Power From The Horse’s Mouth Live, hosted by Tom Nugent and featuring a stellar panel that includes former jockeys and well-known racing pundits Ruby Walsh and Fran Berry. They’ll be reviewing all the Christmas Festival highlights and previewing the top-quality action ahead.

The day’s entertainment extends beyond the track. Visitors will be greeted by a performance from the Newbridge Gospel Choir, and families can enjoy children’s activities including the onsite creche and playground, as well as face painting.

Another highlight of the afternoon will be the ‘Meet the Racehorse’ experience, supported by Declan Landy Fencing and Treo Eile. Briar Hill, who previously won the Grade 1 race taking place on the day, trained in his racing career by Willie Mullins, will be on hand with his owner Corine Doran to share insights into his successful transition to life after racing and his important role at Grennan Equine College.

In addition, fashion enthusiasts will be thrilled by the exciting Winter Best Dressed Competition, with details coming soon. Racegoers are encouraged to get creative and stylish, as prizes will be awarded for the most outstanding outfits of the day.

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The day will also feature live music, great food options, and a vibrant festival atmosphere for all ages, making it one of the most anticipated events of the year at Naas Racecourse.

Early Bird general admission tickets, priced at €15, are available until 22nd December, and hospitality packages are selling fast.

Book now at www.naasracecourse.com