Track Biography:

The Ballymacad hunting history dates back to 1730 and they have always strived to  every aspect they participate in be it hunting, running a hunter trials and Point-to-Point.

 The original Ballymacad Point-to-Point meeting was held in Crossakiel was the most exciting event of the year when even the local school closed for the day. In a large field on the northern slope of the hill, tents were set up and a festival atmosphere was created with women would sell the race cards and trick-of-the-loop tables were set up. The start was in the next field and all that could be seen was the jockeys colours through the hedge until they suddenly appeared jumping the last fence where the whipper-in would gallop up and down to keep the crowds back off the track right up to the winning post! Some of the natural obstacles are still used by those out hunting to this day.

In 1977 the event moved to its current venue at Newcastle, Oldcastle which provides a great natural course with great viewing for spectators.

The four year old maiden race has provided a start for some very successful horses on the track including Our Vic and the most recent being the Willie Mullins trained Live Love Laugh. The very famous Flashing Steel owned by Charlie Haughey also had a win in Oldcastle.

With its white railing, the course and facilities create the feel of being at an actual race meeting. The Clerk of the Course has spent years perfecting the ground, to ensure the best underfoot conditions are on offer to owners, trainers and jockeys.