The Punchestown Festival which concluded on Saturday provided drama and emotion at every turn. It also secured a new record attendance.

Willie Mullins and Davy Russell walked away with the respective Champion Trainer and Champion Jockey titles but it was perhaps the walking away from their careers in the saddle of Nina Carberry and Katie Walsh that will have brought to mind the fondest memories.

These two trailblazers are sisters in law and both won the Irish Grand National through their time as amateur jockeys, competing against men on a level playing field like in so few other sporting arena’s.

They gave an emotional interview to RTÉ on Saturday, having both gone out on a high riding winners at the Festival.

 

The overall attendance over the fine days set a new record of 127,500, a full 5,000 ahead of last year.

“What a marvellous week this has been here at the Punchestown Festival with so many highlights to celebrate from the opening of our brand new facility the Hunt Stand which was received so well, to Faugheen coming back to his best and seeing two fine lady riders Nina (Carberry) and Katie (Walsh) hanging up their boots, everyday there was some huge festival story.”

“Most of all the celebration here is the festival itself and the people behind it who came in their droves to enjoy this magical event that we are all so proud of.”

“The attendance figure of almost 127,500 is exceptional and a testament to the team here who put their heart and soul into making this the incredible success it is. We would be nowhere without the loyal support of our sponsors and would like to thank them all for helping us to make our dreams a reality.”

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