The new Greenmount Park racecourse in Limerick has finally been given the go-ahead to open its gates in October.

Ireland's first new racetrack in 50 years has eventually been passed fit for racing by the Turf Club Inspector of Courses a year behind schedule.

Operations will begin on Sunday, October 14th.

The new racecourse, which has cost over £10 million to develop, has been plagued with problems since it was first unveiled to the media last year.

The opening has been repeatedly delayed due to problems with the grass not growing properly on the cambered track and there were bare patches on the 70 metre wide course.

Greenmount is four miles from the old Greenpark track in Limerick city, which closed in March 1999 and boasts an extensive four storey, glass fronted stand. It will be the first opening of a new racecourse in Ireland since Wexford in 1951.

The news comes on the heels of confirmation by the Leopardstown authorities that provision for the eventual building of an all-weather racetrack at the Co Dublin venue will be made during the redevelopment brought about by the extension of the M50 motorway.

Meanwhile, racing at Limerick Junction today has been brought forward to 1.00 because of the Tipperary-Wexford hurling replay, a move that was no doubt cheered by that keen GAA fan, Michael Kinane.

The former champion could also be in line to enjoy a very good day before the big game at Croke Park. He will be riding the 98 rated Montecastillo in the Andersen Race and must also hold a good chance in the juvenile fillies maiden on the Galway-placed Moon Safari.

The beautifully bred Josh's Pearl looks the best of the three Oxx runners and the best overall in the mile and a half maiden.

Minashki should go close in the opener.