Punchestown

Right-handed, galloping and undulating, Punchestown provides a demanding but fair examination and is one of Ireland’s premier jumps tracks. The chase course features a steady climb through the final five furlongs, ensuring stamina becomes increasingly important as races develop towards the finish.

The chase track provides an excellent jumping test, with its fences substantial enough to demand respect while remaining fundamentally fair to sound, accurate jumpers. There are eleven fences to a circuit, giving horses plenty of opportunities to establish a jumping rhythm. The hurdles course presents a noticeably different challenge, being more undulating and sharper than its reputation might suggest, with several tight bends favouring horses that race handily.

Punchestown also features a distinctive cross-country course incorporating banks and varied obstacles alongside both left-and right-handed turns. On the conventional tracks, tactical positioning, balance and stamina are all important. Overall, Punchestown rewards accomplished jumpers that travel efficiently and retain sufficient reserves for its sustained climbing finish.