Gioddaíup
It would take more than Summer of 2009 to dampen the enthusiasm of horse lovers up and down the country. In celebration of our fascination with all things equine the Léargas team brought their cameras to just three of Ireland's summer race meetings, but they are race meetings with a difference.
Episodes
Programme 1
One of the oldest race courses in the country and famous for the dramatic "Yellow Sam" betting coup, Bellewstown, Co. Meath comes to life only twice a year, full of the charm of a parish fête combined with the excitement of some serious horse racing. What are the odds if you add to the mix a former American model; Caprice, judging the "Ladies Day" best dressed competition that you'll have drama, glamour, winners and losers and of course Horses!
Programme 2
In the second programme of this new three part series the team visit the Dingle Races. Every year in August, a field at Ballintaggart, two miles outside Dingle town, changes into an enormous racetrack filled with horses, jockeys and horse racing enthusiasts from all over Ireland. The biggest flapper racing festival in Ireland gives many young jockeys the opportunity to show off their talents and to gain valuable experience. This year, The Dingle Races are of particular significance for two young Kerry Jockeys. 10-year-old Jack Kennedy has a dream to follow in the footsteps of his big brother, champion jockey, Patrick Kennedy. This the first time that Jack will run in Dingle with his pony. It is a daunting prospect for the young jockey, but one he will have to face if he is to follow his brother to the racing stables of the Curragh.
Programme 3
For a few days in August the wild desolate, beach at Doolough, Gweesala, West Mayo is transformed into a horse and greyhound track. It's one of the biggest and most colourful events of the year. Hundreds of locals and returned emigrants descend on the beach for the two days. Local man, Gerry Coyle is very proud of the "contraption" he has developed to run the artificial "hare" down the beach. People come from all over the world he claims to view the device, or so he claims! There is intense competition at the local pony race. All eyes are on 'The Champ'. The horse has won this race for a number of years but had to withdraw last year due to illness. But is back with a bang this year. Local rivalries surface with some claiming the race is rigged to ensure "The Champ" is victor. Some local horse owners are incensed, claiming that they are being prevented from competing. The claims are flatly refuted by the committee who counter claim that the locals are falsifying details of their horses. Tempers fray, horses neigh but will "The Champ" be the Champ?
