New Sensory Room Launched at the Curragh

The Curragh Racecourse launched its brand-new sensory room during the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Weekend, marking a milestone as it became the first racecourse in Ireland to offer a permanent, purpose-built space designed to support neurodivergent children and their families.

The development of the sensory room was made possible with the support of many, including jockey William Buick and his wife, Jane, along with Autism in Racing founder Bobby Beevers. It will allow the Curragh to provide a calm, safe and inclusive environment, where individuals with sensory processing needs can take a break, on all racedays throughout the season.

Brian Kavanagh, CEO of the Curragh Racecourse, said, “We are incredibly proud to be the first racecourse in Ireland to offer a permanent sensory room. Horse racing should be a sport for all and we want to ensure that families who might otherwise feel excluded can enjoy a day at the races in a way that feels comfortable and welcoming.”

William Buick, an ambassador for Autism in Racing, added, “It's fantastic to see a permanent sensory room open at the Curragh. Creating more inclusive spaces at racecourses is so important. Families with neurodivergent children deserve the same opportunity to enjoy a day at the races and this room makes that possible. The Curragh is leading the way in Ireland and I'm sure other racecourses will follow in their footsteps.”