Curragh Racecourse Curragh Racecourse The Curragh Racecourse, usually referred to as simply The Curragh, is Ireland's most important Thoroughbred racecourse. It is situated on the Curragh plain in County Kildare, between the towns of Newbridge and Kildare. The name "Curragh" comes from the Irish (Gaeilge) word "Cuirreach", meaning "place of the running horse". The first recorded race on the plain took place in 1727, but it was used for races before then. The first Derby was held in 1866, and in 1868 the Curragh was officially declared a horse racing and training facility by act of parliament. The course is right-handed, about
1944 Irish Greyhound Derby 1944 Irish Greyhound Derby The 1944 Irish Greyhound Derby took place during July and August with the final being held at Shelbourne Park in Dublin on 12 August. The winner Clonbonny Bridge won £500 and was owned and trained by A O'Neill. At Shelbourne Park, 12 August (over 525 yards): head, 1½ (lengths) The 1944 Irish Derby was considered the best entry to date with a greyhound called Mad Tanist owned by Jack McAllister being given the tag of ante-post favourite. Famous Knight the 1943 winner would not defend his title after leaving for England previously. Mad Tanist son of