Listowel

Left-handed, flat and very sharp, Listowel is an oval circuit of around a mile and a quarter that strongly favours handy, agile horses. Its tight configuration places considerably more emphasis on tactical speed than stamina, with even races over longer distances often proving less demanding than might ordinarily be expected.

Prominent racers generally enjoy an advantage, while horses held up can struggle to make ground once the pace increases. Different sections of track can be utilised during the meeting, producing varying degrees of sharpness, but maintaining a good position remains important. There are five fences to a circuit, including two in the short home straight, and the obstacles can provide a reasonably stiff jumping test.

Ground conditions can completely alter Listowel’s character. When testing, the distinctive holding surface can prove extremely difficult for some horses and fields can become strung out surprisingly quickly. Overall, Listowel rewards nimble, prominent racers on normal ground, while proven ability to handle its unusual surface becomes particularly important when conditions deteriorate.