Crowds arriving in Gowran for Goffs Thyestes Chase Day

Racing enthusiasts from all over Ireland are descending upon Gowran Park Racecourse this afternoon for the time-honoured Goffs Thyestes Chase.

The feature race on the day is due to go to post at 3.25pm and is supported by six other races most notably the Grade 2 Galmoy Hurdle with a €40,000 prize up for grabs in this staying hurdle contest.

A list of Thyestes winners reads like a who's who of Irish jump racing stars - from Arkle to Hedgehunter from Flying Bolt to Djakadam.

“Goffs Thyestes Day really kick starts our season in Gowran Park and we really appreciate how racing people from far and wide support this day every year in their thousands," says Gowran Park General Manager Eddie Scally.

"The Goffs Thyestes Chase is this region’s biggest and most iconic race where horses, trainers and jockeys have the chance to put their name in the history books. We love to see our winners go on to challenge for Grand Nationals and Gold Cups, but I always remember Ruby Walsh after winning on Invitation Only being asked what next for the horse? His reply was simply 'I don’t know, and I don’t mind, he’s won a Thyestes' - this for me just sums up what the Goffs Thyestes Chase means to the racing world."