Nua Healthcare Services, based in Naas, has been unveiled as the sponsor of the St. Patrick’s Festival Family Race Day at the Curragh Racecourse on Sunday, March 16th, 2025.
This marks the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day and signals the start of the 2025 flat racing season at the iconic Curragh racecourse.
Nua Healthcare Services, a leading provider of community-based residential, specialist hospital, and supported living services for individuals with mental health conditions and intellectual disabilities, is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and well-being for all members of society.
As part of their sponsorship with the Curragh, they are teaming up with Kildare Sports Partnership to renew the race day’s Sweepstake initiative, which proved so popular in 2024. Reinforcing the significant link between physical activity and mental health, the initiative will also raise much-needed funds for local sports clubs.
Every sports club in Kildare has been invited to join the fundraising initiative. Through this collaboration, clubs can participate in a sweepstake linked to the major race of the day, the Nua Healthcare Services Irish Lincolnshire, with the opportunity to win €1,000 for their club.
This unique and enjoyable initiative is open to all local sports clubs and societies at no cost. In addition,1,000 complimentary race day tickets have been made available to all sports clubs and societies through the Kildare Sports Partnership.
“Engaging with local communities is a priority for us in 2025,” said Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager for the Curragh Racecourse.
“Partnering with Nua Healthcare Services to highlight the connection between physical activity and mental health is the perfect way to kick off our racing season.”
“We have encouraged all sports clubs in Kildare to participate in our sweepstake and take advantage of the complimentary tickets available to come along and enjoy a day at the Curragh.”
“The winning club will receive €1,000 to support their efforts, and we look forward to a fantastic day filled with family-friendly fun.”
“We are thrilled to partner with the Curragh Racecourse again and raise awareness about the importance of inclusivity for people with mental health conditions and intellectual disabilities,” said Noel Dunne, CEO of Nua Healthcare Services.
“By highlighting the benefits of physical activity alongside Kildare Sports Partnership, we hope to bring together sports clubs and the wider community to celebrate well-being.”
“Once again, we are excited to join forces with Nua Healthcare and the Curragh Racecourse for this special event,” added Syl Merrins of the Kildare Sports Partnership.
“This initiative is a fantastic opportunity for sports clubs to raise funds while promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.”
“The Curragh Racecourse has long supported our work, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with Nua Healthcare to promote physical activity across the county.
Off the track, there will be plenty to see and enjoy on the racecourse with various free family-friendly entertainment throughout the day, including live music from the Naas Hospital Choir and traditional musicians Ceili Cottage.
The Moyglare Kids Zone will feature many free activities for younger race goers with Glitter Tattooing and Storytelling from the Talking Tree! There will also be an appearance from Patches the Friendly Leprechaun mascot, who is happy to take photos!
Further Reading for Sport for Business Members: The Thursday Interview – Evan Arkwright
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
Reaching out to the sports clubs across the county will engage them in attending the races and offer them the chance to win a cash prize. That is a win-win situation. JP McManus and his family first brought the idea to life in partnership with Greyhound Racing Ireland and Limerick Stadium.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
The Racing Gets underway on Sunday afternoon, leaving Monday free for The Talking Tree and Patches to make it to their own St Patrick’s Day Parades.
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