Few greyhound venues can boast a setting quite like Youghal. Nestled on the eastern edge of County Cork, the track lies only minutes from the seafront, which gives a night’s racing here its own distinctive character. Visitors often remark that they can catch the scent of the sea air as the dogs parade, a reminder that Youghal is every bit as much a coastal town as it is a racing destination.
The stadium itself is a tidy, traditional track, well maintained and welcoming to locals and visitors alike. The 525-yard circuit is known for being sharp and competitive, with the first bend coming up quickly to test both dogs and trainers. It’s a place where sprint races feel electric and staying contests demand every ounce of stamina. For punters, that means there’s rarely such a thing as a dull night on the card.
The local racing calendar is packed with graded action, but the stadium also plays host to feature events that carry plenty of prestige in the region. The Youghal Track Supporters Derby and seasonal competitions often draw entries from kennels across Munster, ensuring that the quality remains high and the competition fierce. Watching the top-class dogs thunder round the bends under floodlights is a thrill that never really fades, even for long-time followers.
The circuit circumference is 464 yards. Race distances include 325 yards, 525 yards, 550 yards, 700 yards, and 790 yards. It first opened for racing in 1948; the first ever winner was Hackles Spring. Operated originally by the Youghal Racing Company before being taken over by Greyhound Racing Ireland (formerly Rásaíocht Con Éireann) in 1972.
Race nights typically are Monday and Friday evenings.
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Major Festivals at Youghal
Blackwater Cup, Paddy Stakes, and the Aherne Memorial Cup
Racecourse Location
Claycastle, Youghal, County Cork, ROI.
Youghal Races Map & Directions: