Irish Derby day on-course bookmaker turnover down year-on-year after 45 per cent increase for Saturday's card

Two leading on-course bookmakers have described trade for Irish Derby day as positive, although it was the only one of the three days at the Curragh festival to record a drop in business as doubts remain about the handicap-heavy undercard.

While Derby day arrived amid concerns over attendance at the Curragh following an underwhelming turnout for the Guineas meeting in May, figures from Horse Racing Ireland showed on-course betting turnover across the three-day meeting increased from last year by just over seven per cent. Betting ring turnover of €1,164,654 was up from €1,085,461 last year. 

Turnover increased by an eyecatching 45 per cent on the Saturday, as punters seemingly responded positively to the top-quality Group contests on the card despite some short-priced favourites. Total turnover for Saturday was €359,880, compared to €248,340 for last year.