Tramore Racecourse hosts one of the highlights of its summer calendar on Tuesday evening, with the Tote Tramore Derby Handicap providing the feature contest on a seven-race programme.

The one-mile, four-furlong handicap carries a winner’s prize of €9,000 and has attracted a field of 13 runners, with plenty of local interest.

County Waterford trainers are well represented in the feature race. Henry de Bromhead saddles Churchwarden, while Carrick-on-Suir trainer Patrick J. Flynn is represented by Magna Gee.

Speaking on WLR, Tramore Racecourse General Manager Eoghan Byrne said the race has attracted a competitive field.

“There are some nice horses in the race, and it’s very competitive at the grade. Horses like It’s A Long Road have won around Tramore before, while Henry has a horse running in first-time blinkers, so it should be an interesting contest.”

Among the leading contenders is Chopsticks, who is expected to start favourite after finishing fourth in a 17-runner contest at Fairyhouse last month. Byrne believes the horse will be one to watch if handling Tramore’s unique layout.

“He probably will go off favourite if he handles the track. Tramore is a sharp, turning circuit and that’s something punters should bear in mind.”

The going is currently described as good, good to yielding in places, with Byrne explaining that the course is prepared to provide the safest possible racing surface.

“We’d never race on good to firm here. Safety is paramount for our horses and riders, so we always aim for the slower side of good.”

Away from the track, the meeting is also being promoted as a family evening. Children under 14 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult, while a range of entertainment will be available, including bouncy castles, carnival games, face painting, arts and crafts, trampolines and a magician.

Byrne is hopeful the fine weather will attract both racing fans and holidaymakers to Tramore.

“We’re expecting a lot of visitors who are holidaying in the area. With the weather playing its part, it should be a great evening.”

The seven-race card gets underway at 5.25 pm, with the Tote Tramore Derby scheduled as the feature race of the evening.

Sport on WLR is brought to you by Auto Boland Ford.

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