We've survived two world wars and we can survive this - defiance at Gowran Park

Gowran Park general manager Eddie Scally says the popular track is in the midst of a challenging period without racing but he remains optimistic that the Kilkenny venue will weather the coronavirus storm.

The dual-purpose course, which also serves as a 500-member golf course, is operating off a base of three to four staff at present and, once safe to do so, management are eager for racing to resume during an important time of year for the track.

The picturesque venue has already had to cancel its sold-out student raceday on April 8 and is scheduled to hold five fixtures across a 38-day period from May 5 to June 12.