THE Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR) and its 26 member racecourses would like to join with the entire racing family and express our sincere sympathy to the de Bromhead family following the tragic passing of their beautiful son Jack.

Just 13 years of age, Jack was a regular visitor to our racecourses during his far too short life, and he will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by so many all over the country. Everyone who met Jack was touched in a special way and that’s a gift that we will all treasure, always.

To Henry, Heather, Mia and Georgia, his grandparents, extended family and many, many friends, you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Champions Weekend

The much-anticipated Longines Champions Weekend, which was featured last weekend in this column, takes place today and tomorrow, and the Association of Irish Racecourses wish all involved at Leopardstown and the Curragh racecourses every good fortune for a fantastic weekend of top-class racing and fun.

Harvest Time

Best wishes also to all the team at Listowel Races for their upcoming Harvest Festival starting next Sunday. Full details of the racing and off-track festival programme can be found online at listowelraces.ie, and tickets can be purchased there or at the turnstiles on the day.

Good news

The Curragh has announced that all owners will enjoy free admission to their Goffs Million Day on September 24th at the Kildare venue.

Any owners with a horse in training, whether it is running or not on the day, will gain free access to the racecourse on presentation of their AIR card at the entrance. Don’t forget that the day will also feature the Taste of Kildare promotion, adding to the day’s enjoyment.

Down Royal

Molson Coors is set to return to Down Royal as title sponsor for the racecourse’s fixture on Monday, September 26th. A new addition to the fixture list, the Molson Coors Race Day brings the total number of race meetings there for the 2022 calendar to 13.

The partnership gives the world-class brewer exclusive naming rights to the entire race card on the day, and direct promotional and marketing support of the Molson Coors beer portfolio. This is not the brewer’s first venture into the world of horseracing, having now partnered with Down Royal since 2020.

Kathryn Holland, commercial manager at Down Royal Racecourse said: “We are delighted to continue our relationship with Molson Coors who share our passion for great quality, superb hospitality and excellent service.

“The Molson Coors Race Day is an exciting addition to our usual 12-fixture calendar of race meetings, and we’re looking forward to providing a great day for both fans and our sponsors, giving them an extra reason to continue to visit Down Royal.”

Chris Maguire, key account manager for Molson Coors, added: “We are pleased to continue our partnership with Down Royal Racecourse, giving us the opportunity to show our appreciation to our customers while enjoying some time outside the office. We’re looking forward to welcoming racegoers, and presenting our award-winning premium beer and cider portfolio, as well as showcasing our favourite trusted brands and encouraging them to explore different products and flavours!”

Gates open at 12 noon and the first race takes place at 2pm. Admission is £10, and tickets are available at the turnstiles on arrival. Children under 14 go free and car parking is available.

For further information on upcoming race meetings at Down Royal visit downroyal.com/fixtures-tickets/