Sand bank set to become race track

A sand bank in a West Cork harbour will have its annual transformation on Sunday next for the Courtmacsherry Strand Races.

The eight-race card will carry a prize fund of about e6,000.

Racing fans and fashionistas alike will flock to Courtmacsherry for the event, which will feature a best dressed lady competition.

The first race is scheduled to begin at 2.30pm.

The races were revived in 2000 as a Millennium project and have gained in popularity.

Inclement weather led to their cancellation last year, when organisers were forced to take the decision after safety concerns.

While the outgoing tide will unveil the race track, other changes include the car park becoming a parade ring and winners’ enclosure while the local community hall dovetails as the jockey’s changing area, weighing rooms, and café.

A grandstand view of proceedings can be availed of from another car park, which will also host the betting ring. Race commentary will be provided by Charlie Farrelly.

The committee, under the stewardship of chairman Denis O’Donovan, will be hoping for good weather conditions this time around for the eight-race card.

The feature race is the Lislee Derby for the O’Donovan Brothers Perpetual Trophy, sponsored by Springmount Stud.

Entries for the event are at an all-time high.

Since its revival, young jockeys such as Danny Mullins, Wayne Lordan, Chris Hayes, and Billy Lee have all raced in Courtmacsherry.