Classic imitations at the Curragh often confirm a true champion's status

The expanse of heath near Kildare town known as the Curragh and the location of an iconic racetrack of the same name has always been the home of the five Irish Classics. Even the word Curragh is derived from the gaelic 'Cuirrach', meaning racecourse.

Ancient laws dating back to the fifth century, and which underwent a resurgence from the 13th to the 17th century, were handed down from the native Irish by the Brehons or judges who decreed that foster children should be provided with horses and taught riding, and that a foster son should be given a horse at the times of the races.

The Curragh was known as the King's racecourse back then and only young nobles were allowed to race on it.