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
1986 Irish Greyhound Derby 1986 Irish Greyhound Derby The 1986 Irish Greyhound Derby took place during August and September with the final being held at Shelbourne Park in Dublin on 20 September 1986. The competition was raced over the slightly longer race distance of 550 yards for the first time. The winner Kyle Jack won £25,000 and was trained by John Field, owned by Michael Field and bred by Batt O'Keeffe. The competition was sponsored by Carrolls. At Shelbourne, 20 September (over 550 yards): 3, 2½, 1, ¾, head (lengths) The Irish Derby had been increased in distance from 525 yards to 550 yards,