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
1969 Irish Greyhound Derby lengths. Sadly Kilbelin Grand died shortly after the race from heart failure. The winning trainer was Ger McKenna, cousin of Gay McKenna, the name McKenna would remain a famous Irish training name for decades to come. 1969 Irish Greyhound Derby The 1969 Irish Greyhound Derby took place during July and August with the final being held at Harold's Cross Stadium in Dublin on 8 August 1969. The winner Own Pride won £2,000 and was trained by Ger McKenna and owned by Tom O'Doherty. It was the last ever Derby to be run at Harolds Cross following the decision by the