Racing Ground on Track

- 14 May 2008

Work is galloping ahead on a new multi-million pound racecourse in the Gwendraeth Valley.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan has paid a visit to Ffos Las, the former opencast site near Trimsaran and Carway, to see the progress.

He said: "I'm delighted to see work galloping ahead on yet another major Welsh sporting venue.

"I'm thrilled that this equestrian centre of excellence being developed here in Trimsaran has also been identified as a potential Olympic training base for riders and their steeds in the build-up to the 2012 games.

"As a commercial racecourse, I am sure Trimsaran will have a flying start because it is the nearest horse racing course to Ireland anywhere in Britain."

The first phase of the project, scheduled for completion in 2009, includes a mile and four furlong National Hunt and flat racecourse circuit with a grandstand, catering facilities, stabling and technical and administrative buildings.

Future stages will include an indoor and outdoor equestrian centre of excellence. The final stage will see the creation of an equine training centre with paddocks, gallops and equine pool.

Credit - www.llanellistar.co.uk