Bumper Crowd and Local Heroes Shine at Ballinrobe Season Opener

Michael Flannery, trainer, pictured with co-owners Benny Walsh & Declan Murphy following their success with Tomas O Maille in the Lodge at Ashford Castle H’Cap Hurdle.

Friday evening last saw a bumper crowd flock to Ballinrobe Racecourse for the much-anticipated opening meeting of the 2025 season. With glorious spring sunshine and thrilling action on the track, it was an unforgettable start to the year for racegoers.

The stand-out moment of the evening came in The Lodge at Ashford Castle Handicap Hurdle, when local pride was to the fore. Tomas O Maille, trained by Ballinrobe committee member and hometown favourite Michael Flannery, stormed to victory at 12/1 under jockey Ambrose McCurtin. Cheered on by an ecstatic local crowd, Tomas O Maille made a dramatic charge from the rear of the field two hurdles from home and took the lead at the last, going on to win by a length and a half.

“We’ve been trying a long time to do it!” said a delighted Flannery. “I’m absolutely thrilled with the win and to do it here at Ballinrobe makes it even more special. Tomas O Maille is named after the best footballer in the ’70s, and my friend Tom, who’s here today to witness it all.”

Big crowd at Ballinrobe for their first meeting of the season (Photo HEALY RACING)

There was more family celebration earlier in the evening when jockey Harry Swan rode Miss Corby to victory for trainer Mouse Morris. Harry, son of legendary jockey Charlie Swan, enjoyed an extra special moment as his win aboard Miss Corby was shared with his grandparents, Timmy and Trish Hyde, part-owners of the horse, who were there in person to cheer him on. In a touching twist, Harry’s grandfather Timmy had his last win as a jockey at Ballinrobe back in the 1960s, adding an emotional layer to an already memorable night.

Racecourse manager John Flannelly hailed the event as a massive success. “What a start to our 2025 season,” he said. “The weather played a massive role and we had our biggest crowd in over ten years. I’m absolutely delighted with Mike’s win — the roar from the crowd and the atmosphere is what makes such fantastic memories here at Ballinrobe.”

With a thrilling opening evening behind them, the team at Ballinrobe are already looking ahead. The next Friday evening meeting takes place on May 9th, and with momentum building, another exciting night surely awaits.

Find Out More