Punters set to blow €12m in bets on the Irish Grand National
Punters are set to blow in the region of €12m in bets on this year’s highly anticipated Irish Grand National on Easter Monday.
The three-day Easter festival, which is set to kick off on Saturday and continue until Monday at Fairyhouse Racecourse in Ratoath, Co Meath, culminating in the BoyleSport Irish Grand National at 5pm.
The Most Stylish Competition with the theme ‘Pre-Loved’ will also take place on Monday with plenty of prizes up for grabs.
Spokesperson for Paddy Power bookmakers Rachael Kane told The Star: “We would estimate that industry-wide somewhere north of €12m will be wagered on the Irish Grand National.”
But for the 15,000 plus punters expected to attend the famous race meet on Easter Monday to witness the richest chase in the Irish calendar, the weather will not be on their side as the national forecaster is predicting widespread showers.
However, there will be some sunshine in between. “Some of the showers on Easter Monday will be heavy with hail and thunder possible,” a spokesperson for Met Eireann said.
“Highest temperatures of 9 to 12 degrees in a moderate to fresh and blustery southwest wind.” Today, the opening day of the Easter racing festival, features the €100,000 RYBO Handicap Hurdle as well as top quality racing.
Today also hosts the Ladies Chase, a highly sought-after race for the female riders which was won in 2022 by Foxwatch for jockey Jody Townend and trainer Tony Mullins.
On Easter Sunday the racecourse will play host to a Family fun day and promises a thrilling combination of top-class jump racing featuring the Grade 1 Boylesports Gold Cup Novice Chase.
There will be a host of free entertainment and activities for children of all ages including face painters, balloon modelling and bubble fun for everyone with live music each evening.
Meanwhile, eager punters will be watching with anticipation to see if Meath-based trainer Dermot McLoughlin completes the treble.
McLoughlin, based in Ratoath close to Fairyhouse, is chasing his third straight Irish Grand National win.
His 2022 Grand National winner Lord Lariat is entered into the Easter Monday feature and at a price of 10/1 it stands a good chance in the field.
Two years ago, the trainer pulled off a huge feat when Freewheelin Dylan caused an almighty shock winning the €500,000 top race at 150/1.
McLoughlin, based in Ratoath, completed the double when his Lord Lariat romped home to win the prestigious race last year at 40/1.
