Bonus prize up for grabs in Knockanard banks race

Image © Healy Racing

A bonus prize of €1,000 will be up for grabs in Knockanard on Sunday 15th February in the open lightweight ran over the banks course. 

The Knockanard banks course remains one of the standout attractions on the point-to-point calendar. As one of the very few venues that still stages a traditional banks race, it proudly preserves a heritage dating back over 70 years.

The race was reintroduced in 2023 to revive this long standing tradition, and it has quickly regained its status as a must see feature.

This open lightweight banks race is a major crowd puller, showcasing specially constructed obstacles—including purpose built banks, a drop bank, and a laurel hedge - set across an exciting three mile course that demands exceptional jumping skill and bravery.

Banks racing marks the origins of point-to-points, and the committee takes great pride in continuing to host this unique and historic challenge. Each year, it draws a large and enthusiastic crowd, eager to experience the close up thrill of banks riding at its best.

The 2025 renewal, generously sponsored by Coolmore and Grange Stud, was won by Cloudy Tuesday, trained and ridden by Turlough O’Connor and owned by Irene Walsh. The race delivered a thrilling finish, with Cloudy Tuesday narrowly edging out the Galway raider Born By The Sea in a gripping battle to the line.

This year’s running offers an enhanced prize fund, with €2,100 for first, €600 for second, and €300 for third. Entries close at 12 noon on Tuesday, 10th February.

The committee are looking forward to an equally exciting contest in 2026 and warmly invite racegoers to join them in Knockanard on 15th February for another unforgettable day of banks racing.