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
1981 Irish Greyhound Derby holding off a late challenge by Calandra Champ who had run a remarkable race to gain considerable ground. 1981 Irish Greyhound Derby The 1981 Irish Greyhound Derby took place during June and July with the final being held at Shelbourne Park in Dublin on 25 July 1981. The winner Bold Work won £25,000 and was trained by Frank O'Regan, owned by Breda O'Regan and bred by Michael Foley. The competition was sponsored by Carrolls. At Shelbourne, 25 July (over 525 yards): ½, short-head, head (lengths) An historic 50th Irish Greyhound Derby event attracted 118 runners. The Irish challenge was headed