Naas is set in the heart of Kildare which is renowned as the ‘Thoroughbred county’ of Ireland and the town is also famously, as in it's Gaelic translation, the "Meeting Place of the Irish Kings". Naas is a Grade 1 National Hunt and a Grade 1 Flat Track, the stiff uphill finish is a true test for Cheltenham bound contenders. The main Grandstand Building includes restaurants, bars, corporate suites, an indoor Tote Hall and an S.P. betting office. There’s something about the fresh air, excitement and superb setting that whets the appetite and with the combination of thrilling sporting action and the ideal opportunity to socialize…it makes hospitality and horse racing the perfect partner at Naas Races. Patrons can enjoy the choice from a wide selection of hospitality packages tailored to suite all budgets and requirements.
Some outstanding horses have competed at Naas down the years including in the 60's the great Arkle and Mill House and several winners of the Grand National. The roll call of winners at Naas is just as impressive and includes 2004 Champion Irish 2-year-old Damson who won at Naas before winning at Royal Ascot, and Cheltenham Festival winners Dorans Pride, Danoli, Pizarro and Imperial Call.
The 2008 Season was particularly exciting at Naas Racecourse. The action heated up on Cheltenham Trial day when Thyne Again won in good style for Willie Burke and top Jock Davy Russell. This triumph was quickly succeeded by a place in the Arkle at Cheltenham and when he made his seasonal debut at his beloved Naas on Weatherby’s Day in October, he annihilated the competition in another 20 length victory which bodes well for his 2009 Cheltenham conquest.
Woodlands Park produced another fine Group Race winner in the UK when Jim Bolger and Kevin Manning continued their successful seasonal campaign with Cuis Ghaire in the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot. This tough and talented filly won the prestigious Swordlestown Sprint Stakes in Naas less than 3 weeks before this outstanding victory confirming this race as a serious mark for 2yr old fillies over 6 furlongs. This in form duo went on to win the much coveted Birdcatcher Premier Nursery a competitive race that did not disappoint. Tomas An Tsioda kept on well under pressure to beat Heart On Fire and the bookies favorite Croisultan by a half a length.
A newly built stable yard has just completed which contains 150 high-spec stables to cater for all upcoming heroes of the turf who visit the Woodlands Park Venue.
