Horse racing in Carlow and Kilkenny generates €217m to the economy

An independent report produced for Horse Racing Ireland has found that the horse racing industry in Carlow and Kilkenny provides a significant contribution to the Irish economy, generating €217 million in expenditure and providing 2,830 jobs locally. 

In 2023 Deloitte produced an independent report for Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) on the Social and Economic Impact of Irish Thoroughbred Breeding and Racing, based on 2022 data. 

This report estimated Irish racing and breeding’s total expenditure to be €2.46 billion, with over 30,000 people employed, the majority of which are in rural communities. 

This led us to dig deeper and assess the impact of the industry in the counties and regions across Ireland, and in the counties of Carlow and Kilkenny specifically, found that the industry generates €217 million in expenditure and provides 2,830 jobs.  

The Carlow and Kilkenny region has a rich history in the breeding and racing industry, being recognised for the hugely successful production and training of both Flat and National Hunt horses. 

The region is home to a large number of breeders, 551 in total, and 49 trainers. These include some of Ireland’s best-known trainers, such as multiple Champion National Hunt trainer Willie Mullins and legendary Flat trainer Jim Bolger.  Bloodstock sales generated in the two counties amounted to an impressive €50.5 million. 

The popular Gowran Park racecourse welcomed 43,925 racegoers at its 18 fixtures in 2023 and is renowned as one of the most scenic racecourses in Ireland. 

It hosts high-profile races under both codes throughout the year, including the Goffs Thyestes Chase over Jumps and the Irish EBF Gowran Classic on the Flat.

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