FANS of National Hunt racing in the Royal County were treated to a special night on Thursday. Navan and Fairyhouse racecourses combined to launch the winter season of jump racing at the two tracks, and brought together a panel of experts to look ahead at what might be in store over the coming months.

Noel Meade was joined by riders Davy Russell, Robbie Power, Sean Flanagan and Keith Donoghue to look at some of the horses with which they are associated, and give their opinions on what stars might be lurking in the wings. John O’Riordan brings you some of those opinions elsewhere in this week’s edition. The panel discussion was chaired by Gary O’Brien from At The Races.

The first of these launch nights took place last year and the support was such that the racecourses had no hesitation in repeating the winning formula. The venue this time was the Ardboyne Hotel and an attentive crowd turned out to hear the panel. The intended appearance by Gordon Elliott was not to be, though the trainer had a valid excuse as he travelled to the USA to saddle Beckford at the Breeders’ Cup!

Before the panel and speakers got into action, a video of some of the racing high points from last season at Navan and Fairyhouse was shown, all involving a rider or trainer from the locality. A highlight had to be the success of Robbie Power in the iconic Boylesports Irish Grand National on Our Duke, his mount in today’s JNWine.com Champion Chase at Down Royal.

I had the pleasure of starting the evening and introducing the managers of both courses, Peter Killeen of Navan and Peter Roe from Fairyhouse. Both men outlined their hopes for the season ahead, Fairyhouse racing again on Tuesday, while Navan’s Fortria meeting will be staged on Sunday week. Both men also told the audience about structural developments.

Navan has refurbished their Troytown facility and this atmospheric bar area can accommodate some 400 people. The bar provides the racegoer with ample seating and numerous flat screen televisions, Tote betting and, on those cold winter days, a cosy open fire. There is also live entertainment after each race meeting. Peter Killeen was delighted also that almost all of the work was carried out by local businesses, and some of these have even come on board as sponsors.

Peter Roe outlined a large number of improvements that have been carried out in recent times at Fairyhouse, many of which are not necessarily seen by the racegoer. These include improvements ‘behind the scene’ in the stabling areas and elsewhere. Even maintaining existing facilities to a high standard is a major expenditure for all racecourses.

Both managers report that sponsorship figures and racecourse attendances continue to improve and Peter Killeen reminded the audience of the value to be had from race sponsorship.

The very different climate that is now an everyday phenomenon has seen an inordinately high level of rainfall this year. While this is naturally having an impact, both men were quick to heap praise on their ground staff who continue to provide the best possible racing surface for runners. No easy task.

Annual membership of Navan and Fairyhouse offers regular racegoers exceptional value. A drive to get new members is underway and anyone looking for a 2018 membership now can contact the courses directly and will find that they can get some extra incentives for doing so.

The 2017-18 winter season at both courses offers an exciting programme of racing, and the stars of the jumping scene are certain to be in attendance. Make sure you are too.