Leopardstown Proves a Worthy Favourite with Families
The first of three Family Fun Racedays took place at Leopardstown Racecourse last Sunday the 29th March. The event was well attended, attracting families and racegoers from all over Dublin.
The event kicked off at 1pm in the Family Fun House Marquee where a Children’s workshop run by Marie Louise Donnelley of Front Runner, provided a racing talk and tour for the Children before the first race. The work shop encouraged children of all ages to engage in the racing experience by introducing them to all elements of the industry in a fun and interactive way.
Following the Front Runner Talk families were able to enjoy the other activities such as the Build-A-Bear exhibition stand and games, where everyone got he chance to win some fabulous goodie bags.
Moms and Dads enjoyed the fine weather as the kids bounced the day away on a selection of bouncy castles and inflatable obstacle courses, but if this wasn’t for you there was a fantastic magician performing shows throughout the day in the Pavilion.
The highlight of the afternoon was easily the performance by the Conor Lambert Puppet theatre, which managed to pull the largest crowd of the afternoon. The shouts and giggles coming from the Family Fun House Marquee almost drowned out the cheer from the racegoers in the stand when Jim Bolger’s Maoineach stormed home in the (Group 3) 1,000 Guineas Trial.
A competition was held to find a name for the giant teddy horse kindly donated by Hamleys in Dundrum town centre. The Horse currently known as Harry spent the day in his stable in the Family Fun House Marquee. The winner, who will be announced on the 10th May at the final Family Day, will need to start making room in the garden as they get to take him home.
Also up for grabs was a weekend stay in the Dunboyne Castle hotel and Spa, for 2 adults and 2 children including a full Irish breakfast, dinner and tickets to the National Aquatic Centre. This prize was won by Grainne O’Connell from Knocklyon.
The Family Day at Leopardstown offered suburb value and alternative day out for families with entertainment and activities to suit all levels and interests. Admission to the event including all the activities cost just €15 for Adults and Children under 14 were free. A Family Much Lunch was provided in the Leopardstown Pavilion, where an extensive Children’s menu cost just€6.50.
There were also some famous sporting faces spotted including members of the Irish International football team who were enjoying some down time after their 1 all draw against Bulgaria in Croke Park the night before.
There are 2 more Family Fun Raceday this spring; 19th April and 10th May - Use the link below to book tickets and receive a 10% discount
