Punchestown Charity Race to surpass €2 million ahead of Kildare festival

2025 will be a major milestone for the Punchestown Kidney Research Fund (PKRF) Charity Race as it is set to exceed €2 million in total funds raised. The 34th running of what is considered the most important race at the Kildare festival, will take place on Saturday, May 3 2025. This special race is the last of the season as the curtain falls on the national hunt season on the final day of the Punchestown Festival.  

This year marks a major milestone: PKRF is set to exceed €2 million in total funds raised since the race began. All proceeds support kidney-related research and initiatives, while also raising crucial awareness about organ donation in Ireland.

The race was founded in 1990 by Kilcullen native James Nolan, who received a life-saving kidney transplant from his sister Catherine Doyle in 1987. After regaining his health, James launched the charity race to give back—and even rode in the first 13 editions, famously winning in 2002 aboard Nero’s Dancer at odds of 50/1.

Recent Impact of the PKRF

Over the past three years, the PKRF has supported a range of life-changing projects:

• Pilot Peer Support Program with the IKA, providing vital emotional and practical support for dialysis and transplant patients and their families.
• James Tracy/PKRF/Kidney Beam Exercise Program, offering free, live and on-demand online fitness classes tailored specifically for kidney patients.
• Research into Polycystic Kidney Disease, in collaboration with the Irish Nephrology Society and the Irish Research Council.
• “State Man” Art Therapy Initiatives for dialysis patients across units in Tallaght, Waterford, and Wexford.
• Sports Programs designed for kidney patients to promote wellness and community.
• A special trip to Lourdes for one dialysis patient and their carer.
• Development of a new “Kidney App” in partnership with Dr. Donal Sexton at St. James’s Hospital, to help patients manage their care.

Racing with a Purpose

The race’s title — “Have the Conversation – Say YES to Organ Donation” — captures its deeper mission. Founder James Nolan urges every family in Ireland to talk openly about organ donation.“Don’t leave your loved ones in doubt. Have the conversation. It makes all the difference,” says Nolan.

This year, 22 amateur jockeys who have successfully completed their assessments at the Jockey Apprentice School (R.A.C.E.) will take part in the 34th running of this remarkable race. The 2025 Punchestown Festival takes place from Tuesday, April 29 to Saturday, May 3. The PKRF Charity Race is the curtain closer on Saturday, May 3 @ 6.30pm. Tickets in advance from €35 or festival week from €40. Senior and student tickets available on the day from €25. Full event details and tickets via the link below. 

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