The Irish Harness Racing Association: Driving the Future of Harness Racing in Ireland
The Irish Harness Racing Association (IHRA) is the internationally recognised governing body for harness racing in Ireland. As a member of the Union of European Trotting (UET) and the World Trotting Association, the IHRA plays a crucial role in overseeing and developing both pacers and trotters in the country. With a commitment to maintaining industry standards and promoting the sport on both national and international levels, the IHRA continues to make significant strides in fostering the growth of harness racing in Ireland.
Commitment to Excellence
Recognised under EU Regulation as a Breed Society, the IHRA is officially approved to manage the studbooks for both pacers and trotters. The organisation aims to uphold the integrity of these breeds by implementing rigorous breeding and performance programmes. Through meticulous record-keeping and adherence to international standards, the IHRA ensures that Ireland’s harness racing industry remains competitive and well-regulated.
Recent Developments and Initiatives
Breeding Database and Studbook Management
The IHRA recently launched Grassroots, an innovative online breeding database accessible to all members via Pediweb. This platform allows members to view pedigrees of broodmares, stallions, and foals registered with the IHRA. By providing valuable insights into breeding histories, Grassroots empowers breeders to make informed decisions, ultimately enhancing the quality of harness racing in Ireland.
Government Support and Infrastructure Development
The Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine has recognised the IHRA’s contributions to the equine industry by providing grants for various initiatives. These include:
- Breeding Performance Authentication
- Studbook Development SNP DNA Testing
- Performance Infrastructure
- Promotional activities, such as those at the National Ploughing Championships
Additionally, a major boost for Irish harness racing came in the form of a €347,000 grant from the Department of Sport and Tourism. This funding is earmarked for transforming the existing grass track at Lyre into a state-of-the-art hard track with enhanced facilities. With construction expected to begin before Christmas and completion anticipated in 2025, this development promises to elevate the racing experience for competitors and spectators alike.
2025 Racing Fixtures
The IHRA has released its 2025 racing fixtures, ensuring an exciting and competitive season ahead. These events, held at various venues across Ireland, serve to promote the sport while providing a platform for local and international competitors to showcase their skills. As the sport continues to grow, these fixtures will play a vital role in expanding harness racing’s reach and popularity.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Irish Harness Racing
With a clear vision and strong industry backing, the IHRA is poised to lead the evolution of harness racing in Ireland. By investing in infrastructure, improving breeding programmes, and fostering international partnerships, the organisation is laying a solid foundation for future generations of competitors and enthusiasts.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on the IHRA to continue shaping a dynamic and thriving harness racing community in Ireland. Whether through grassroots initiatives or top-tier racing events, the IHRA’s commitment to excellence ensures a bright future for the sport.
