Racing, fashion and entertainment are coming to Limerick Racecourse as the BOYLE Sports Munster National Weekend returns on Saturday, October 17th and Sunday, October 18th, 2026.
The centrepiece is the BOYLE Sports JT McNamara Munster National, one of Ireland’s key early-season races, with previous winners including Tiger Roll.
This year, Limerick Racecourse is working with Big Boss Presents, part of the Big Boss Group, to develop the experience around the racing through entertainment, hospitality and community involvement.
The ambition is to encourage visitors to make a weekend of their trip, stay locally and discover everything Limerick has to offer.
Riann O’Dwyer of Big Boss Group said the aim is to grow October racing into a major weekend for Limerick, creating an experience people look forward to returning to each year.
A Boost For Local Charities
The JP McManus Charity Sweepstake returns with 16 charities selected for 2026, supporting organisations across Limerick, Clare, Cork, Tipperary and the wider Mid-West.
Each charity is matched with a horse in the Munster National and receives 100 free raceday tickets, which can be distributed or sold to supporters for fundraising.
Every organisation is guaranteed at least €1,000. The charity paired with the winning horse receives €20,000, with €3,000 for second place and €2,000 for third.
Last year, Ballyneety Community Development Association won €20,000 after being matched with French Dynamite. The prize is now helping develop its community facilities.
Dress To Impress
Ladies Day will add fashion to the festivities, with Aoife McNamara of Aoife Ireland announced as this year’s judge.
Racegoers are encouraged to dress to impress and enjoy the atmosphere alongside the sporting action.
BOYLE Sports remains title sponsor of the Munster National and October Festival through to 2028, supporting the continued growth of this event on Limerick’s annual racing and entertainment calendar.
