DUBLIN, Ireland: Ireland's only privately-owned Thurles Racecourse announced on August 1 that it would cease operations immediately, bringing an abrupt end to more than 100 years of racing at the historic venue.
The news was confirmed by Riona Molony, who formally announced the Molony family's decision to retire from running the track.
The sudden closure of the racecourse has been described as "a blow to the backbone of the community" and "another thread lost in the social fabric of Tipperary" by TD for Tipperary North, Ryan O'Meara.
O'Meara said the announcement would leave many people in Tipperary and beyond with "a real sense of loss."
"Thurles Racecourse always felt immovable — a constant presence in local life," he said. "It was something you could rely on, and now it's gone. This is a very sad day for the community."
The Molony family has operated the racecourse for over a century, earning a place in Irish racing history as custodians of a venue that was as much a social hub as it was a sporting arena. All fixtures scheduled for later this year have now been cancelled.
"For more than 100 years, the Molony family have provided what many regarded as an institution," O'Meara added. "It was a place that brought people together — a venue where horse racing fans and locals could meet, connect, and share in the excitement of the sport. It was part of our identity, and it will be sorely missed."
Announcing the decision, Riona Molony said it had been "an honour and a privilege" for her family to run Thurles Racecourse.
Molony reflected on the personal challenges faced since the death of her husband, Pierce, in 2015. "With the help of our four daughters — Patricia, Helen, Ann Marie, and Kate — and our wonderful staff, we've managed to keep the show on the road. I know Pierce would be very proud of that," she said.
However, she acknowledged that the demands of the industry and rising operational costs had become increasingly difficult. "The girls have their own families, careers, and lives to live. The ever-increasing demands of the sport, combined with the cost of doing business, have been major factors in our decision."
Although Thurles Racecourse is licensed to operate until December 31 and still appears in the 2025–2026 racing calendar with 11 prominent fixtures, the Molony family has confirmed there will be no further race meetings.
"We're going to enjoy this time together and relax now that the decision has been made and the news is out," Molony said. "After that, we'll consider our options."
For many in Tipperary, the closure marks the end of an era. The racecourse was not only a stage for sporting excellence but also a place where generations gathered, friendships were formed, and community spirit thrived. Its absence will be felt far beyond the final furlong.
