How it Started

James Nolan, who has battled progressive renal failure since birth, spent the first 19 years of his life undergoing extensive medical treatments and was placed on dialysis at the Meath Hospital, Dublin, at the age of 19 in November 1986.

In April 1987, his family explored the possibility of a transplant, leading to the discovery that his sister Catherine was a 100% match. Catherine generously donated one of her kidneys, giving James a new lease on life. After their surgeries, James, fully recovered and inspired to give back, collaborated with The Punchestown Race Course and The Turf Club to establish a charity race. James participated in the first 13 races, notably winning in 2002 at 50/1 odds on Nero’s Dancer.

To date, the event has raised €1.8 million for kidney-related projects, with the Punchestown Kidney Research Fund investing these funds in initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of dialysis patients, extending the lifespan of transplanted kidneys, and investigating the causes of renal failure.

James Nolan, now 57, has made a significant impact through his efforts in both his personal battle with kidney disease and his philanthropic contributions to kidney research.