CHAIRMAN of Punchestown Racecourse David Mongey said Punchestown is being offered to Horse Sport Ireland “almost free of charge” despite their announcement to leave Kildare and establish a centre of excellence at Greenogue in Rathcoole, Co Dublin.

Speaking on Kildare FM radio on Wednesday, Mongey, who is also chairman of Failte Kildare and a keen hunting enthusiast, said they would be delighted to welcome Horse Sport Ireland to Punchestown, but funding would have to be sought to build the appropriate facilities.