Tramore Races go behind closed doors to beat Covid hurdle

The hugely popular August festival at Tramore racecourse is to be run behind closed doors.
General Manager Owen Byrne said the board had taken the difficult decision based on government guidelines for Covid-19 restrictions.
“I am disappointed to announce that our four-day festival will run behind closed doors in 2020,” he said. “With the festival just over three weeks away and, based on current Horse Racing Ireland and government health guidelines, we feel it is in the best interest of our customers health and safety to run without crowds this year.”
The August festival is a big date in the social calendar with visitors from all over the country flocking to the seaside track. Last year it attracted record crowds with more than 21,000 spectators over the four days.
“We are very aware that the racing festival is a highlight in many people’ s diaries in the South East as well as the economic impact on Tramore and the many businesses who get a huge boost from racegoers during that week,” said Mr Byrne.
“We hope to announce several virtual events in the coming days that people can enjoy at home with friends or in the pubs and restaurants in Waterford and Tramore if government guidelines allow.”