Pictured at the launch of McHale Raceday 2024 are (from left): John Flannelly, Ballinrobe Racecourse manager; Sean O'Connell, racecourse committee; Padraic McHale, managing director of McHale; Kenneth Murphy, racecourse chairman; and Sinead McGrath, racecouerse committee. Photo: Trish Forde

Prize fund of €100,000 announced for the listed McHale Mayo National

McHale Raceday – a highlight in the Ballinrobe Racecourse racing calendar – is gearing up for an exciting evening on Monday, May 27, with a massive announcement that is sure to set pulses racing.

The feature race, the listed McHale Mayo National, will now boast an impressive prize fund of €100,000, marking yet another increase in the riches of this prestigious race held in Ballinrobe.

McHale Raceday kicks off the first day of the two-day May meeting featuring the esteemed McHale Mayo National, the McHale Mayo Hurdle and the McHale Tiger Roll Beginners Handicap Hurdle, promising a day filled with excitement and fierce competition.

Now celebrating its 11th year, McHale Raceday owes its success to the steadfast support of Ballinrobe Racecourse's esteemed neighbours, McHale. Their unwavering commitment has played a pivotal role in the growth and success of this race meeting, and it is thanks to their continued support that the high-calibre race that is the McHale Mayo National is made possible at Ballinrobe

John Flannelly, racecourse manager, expressed his gratitude, stating: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to McHale for their ongoing support. Their dedication has been instrumental in the success of McHale Raceday, and we are truly grateful for their partnership. It is great to see the McHale Mayo National reach a prize fund of €100,000.”

Padraic McHale, managing director of McHale, added: “McHale Race Day is now in its 11th year running and it has gone from strength to strength since our sponsorship began. A credit has to be given to John and his team at Ballinrobe Racecourse for all their efforts on and off the track.

“This year will see another exciting days racing on McHale Race Day with the feature race, the McHale Mayo National, now worth €100,000, which is sure to attract the best of horses and hopefully a crowd, so come along on May 27 for an evening of racing and entertainment.”

In 2023, the McHale Mayo National was won by the Gordon Elliot-trained Tullybeg, ridden by recently crowned Champion Conditional jockey, Danny Gilligan. On the day, Mystical Power, the first foal of Annie Power, triumphantly debuted and has since secured victory in two prestigious Grade One races at Aintree and Punchestown.

The action-packed seven-race card on McHale Raceday is scheduled to commence at 4.30 p.m. with Rasai Beo, TG4, broadcasting live, allowing fans from all corners to witness the thrill of the day first-hand. For further information, updates and group packages, visit www.ballinroberacecourse.ie or follow Ballinrobe Racecourse on their social channels.