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
1983 Irish Greyhound Derby Belvedere Bran challenged Brideview Sailor and outstayed his rival to claim the victory after an exciting battle between the pair. 1983 Irish Greyhound Derby The 1983 Irish Greyhound Derby took place during June and July with the final being held at Shelbourne Park in Dublin on 31 July 1983. The winner Belvedere Bran won £25,000 and was trained by Dermot O'Sullivan, owned by Cornelius 'Con' O'Sullivan and bred by Thomas McSherry. The competition was sponsored by Carrolls. At Shelbourne, 31 July (over 525 yards): neck, head, 1½, 1, head (lengths) Game Ball arrived as the favourite for the Irish Derby