THE redevelopment of Lyre Raceway into a top-class circuit is right on track, insists James O’Sullivan, Irish Harness Racing Association (IHRA) Director.

During a recent visit by Christopher O'Sullivan TD, IHRA officials confirmed the project remains on schedule with phase one expected to be completed in the next few weeks.

Previously the IHRA has described this project as a ‘significant step forward for harness racing in Ireland’, boosted by an injection of €347,490 from the Community Sport Facilities Fund.

‘Dublin-based Cool Cat Plant Hire have transformed this greenfield 20-plus-acre site on the property of local retired farmer Ger Hegarty, which is held on a long-term lease by the Irish Harness Racing Association, into an all-weather half-mile circuit featuring cambered bends with a track width of 40 feet,’ James O’Sullivan confirmed.

The official opening of Lyre Raceway is expected to coincide with the scheduled Red John Memorial two-day fixture of Saturday and Sunday, July 11th and 12th. A delegation of French professional drivers are due to travel to West Cork for the annual French/Irish drivers challenge, supported by the IHRA’s European partners Le Trot.

While the IHRA believes this investment will play an important role in supporting and growing the sport into the future, the local community will also benefit.

‘Once completed, Lyre Raceway will not only serve as a hub for IHRA racing activities but will also function as a shared community facility,’ O’Sullivan explained.

‘Local schools and walking clubs are expected to use the venue in tandem with racing events, ensuring that the space supports education, recreation, and wellbeing alongside competitive sport.

‘The local Knockskeagh National School is the first non-equine beneficiary of this development with a school football pitch to be provided within the confines of this site.’

Christopher O'Sullivan TD (right) at the development with Michéal Duggan (IHRA), Donal Murphy, Michael O'Mahony and Patrick Hill (all harness racing drivers) and James O'Sullivan (IHRA). (Photo: Andy Gibson)

Completing phase one is the immediate priority, and the next phase will include purpose-built stabling, wash bays, horse walkers, etc., to attract trainers to operate full-time from this facility.

‘The funding for this project is underpinned by a Department of Sport 2024 allocation of €350k under the Sport Capital Programme funding,’ O’Sullivan said.

‘A local IHRA organising committee is now undertaking a further fundraising programme to secure additional funds from both private and commercial sources to complete the first phase of this project.

‘This fundraising committee would like to acknowledge commitments of financial support already received from some of our former road and field racing committees in the West Cork region.’