The final of the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial was the main event at Limerick Greyhound Stadium on Saturday night, but a bonus was in store with not one but two Aintree Grand National winners making an appearance before the big race.
The event is a major fundraiser for all 72 GAA Clubs, LGFA Clubs, Camogie Clubs, and Handball Clubs in Limerick and also highlighted this year, a shared commitment to environmental stewardship.
Trained by Willie Mullins, I Am Maximus received a warm welcome from the crowd as he paraded in front of a packed stand by handlers from Martinstown Stud along with 2021 champion Minella Times, trained by Henry de Bromhead.
Each participating club was invited to plant a tree on the stadium grounds, symbolising their dedication to sustainability and commemorating the event for years to come.
The significance of this initiative extends beyond mere tree planting; it signifies a collective effort to create a legacy of ecological conservation and community engagement. By involving the clubs, the initiative fosters a sense of unity and collaboration while promoting environmental awareness among supporters alike.
Furthermore, the mapping of these trees allows clubs to track the progress of their individual trees over time, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to the ongoing greening of the stadium grounds. This not only serves as a tangible reminder of the event but also encourages continued engagement in environmental initiatives within the community.
Through this tree planting initiative, Limerick Greyhound Stadium demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and inspires others to embrace similar efforts in preserving and enhancing natural habitats for future generations.
There were other elements to the event this year showcasing a new approach to environmental responsibility.
For the first time, all tickets and posters were produced using recyclable materials. The aim of the event was to minimise its ecological footprint while promoting sustainable practices. The stadium has partnered with suppliers committed to climate action and recycling initiatives, further confirming the stadiums commitment to fostering a more sustainable future.
Recycling race cards and introducing LED lighting have further helped to reduce waste and energy consumption at the venue. They also serve as tangible examples of eco-conscious decision-making. Together, these initiatives underscore the event’s commitment to Climate Action and hope to serve as the blueprint for future Classic Racing Events.
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