A KEY element to next weekend’s flat season opener is providing visitors with insight as to what is involved on racedays.

At the Curragh, included in the entertainment will be a variety of parade ring chats and previews with leading trainers and jockeys as they look forward to the season, together with a number of very special guests.

At Naas, multiple classic-winning jockey Chris Hayes will join clerk of the course, Brendan Sheridan and general manager Eamonn McEvoy to take anyone interested on a walk of the track that is certain to be enlightening.

To register your interest for this unique opportunity, which is available free of charge and starts at 10.30am, mail goracing@naasracecourse.com.

At 12.15pm on Sunday, Hayes will participate in The People Behind The Moment panel discussion in the Marquee, along with local trainer Ross O’Sullivan, breeder Micheal Orlandi of Compas Stallions, who sponsor four races on the card, Johnny Bourke of Syndicates.Racing and Heather Downey, representing the event sponsors Equuip.

Throughout the day, jockeys will mingle and perform meet-and-greets particularly with children, as well as handing out goodie bags. The younger generation will be catered for too, in the form of a magic show at 2pm, while face painting is available from 1pm-3pm. Naas also has an on-site crèche.

The Curragh is introducing a free shuttle bus service from Newbridge, picking up at the train station and outside Whitewater (opposite Judge Roy Beans), and from Kildare, picking up at the train station and in the Square at the bus stop. This initiative is sponsored by Manguard Plus.

Expressway will introduce a new direct bus return service from Dublin to the Curragh on racedays. Leaving Busaras, calling at Temple Bar (Wellington Quay), Heuston Station and Red Cow (Luas). To reserve your place see expressway.ie. The return fare is €25, under 16s €18. Naas Racecourse is providing free shuttle runs from Sallins train station and Naas town before and after racing. The admission fee at the Curragh is €20 (€15 early bird offer at curragh.ie). Under 18s are free when accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets are €15 for seniors and under 25s.

All gate and racecard takings at Naas on Sunday will be donated to the Irish Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal. It’s €15 for general admission. A family pass (two adults with children) is €25, while seniors can go racing for just €9.

Brian Kavanagh, CEO of the Curragh, said: “The decision to jointly launch this year’s flat season is a really positive initiative with both tracks working together with one common goal to promote, market and highlight what promises to be a very exciting season.”

Naas Racecourse’s Eamonn McEvoy added: “The purpose of the weekend is to celebrate the flat season and also give racegoers a further insight into the industry.”