Sport

Horse Racing Ireland to target Japan as key growth market for tourism

Thoroughbred Experience offering to promote flat season in bid to lure owners and trainers here

‘Comparatively, versus other marquee racing festivals internationally, the value of going to an Irish festival is extraordinary,’ says Paul Dermody of Horse Racing Ireland

Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has targeted Japan as a key growth market for horse racing tourism through its Thoroughbred Experience offering.

Paul Dermody, commercial director for HRI, told the Business Post that the Irish flat season held particular appeal to the Japanese market.

“The enduring irony is that while jumps festivals have such a high engagement and passion among Irish people, the flat game is our international window. It’s through those festivals that we see ...