Roscommon Racecourse, with its rich history, first opened its gates for a notable meeting in 1837, orchestrated by the British Military during their tenure in the town.

The official commencement of racing was in 1885, and apart from a brief hiatus between 1936 and 1948, the tradition has flourished uninterrupted. From its humble beginnings of a single annual meeting, Roscommon Racecourse now proudly hosts nine meetings each year, spanning from mid-May to the cusp of October.

The course, designed with a right-handed layout, stretches over a distance of one mile and two furlongs, culminating in a distinct incline leading to the victory post.

For a deeper dive into the world of racing at Roscommon, please visit www.roscommonracecourse.ie.

Situated just 6 km northeast of Galway city, nestled in the townland of Ballybrit, the Galway Racecourse, commonly known as Ballybrit Race Track, stands as a beacon of horse racing excellence in County Galway, Ireland. Located near Castlegar and just north of the N6 Bóthar na dTreabh, this racecourse is a testament to Ireland's rich racing heritage.

Stands: The racecourse boasts two prominent stands - the Main Stand and the Millennium Stand.

Track: Ballybrit is a right-handed course spanning approximately one mile and three furlongs. It features a steep decline leading to the last two fences, followed by a sharp incline up to the finish line.

Galway Races Festival: Every August, the racecourse comes alive with the 7-day Galway Races Festival, culminating in the August Bank holiday weekend. This festival draws the largest crowds, eagerly anticipating the historic Galway Plate and the Galway Hurdle, the week's most prestigious races.

Additional Meetings: Apart from the August festival, Ballybrit also hosts other meetings in September (2 days), early October (1 day), and a three-day event during the last weekend of October.

History of the races

The Galway Summer Festival stands as the pinnacle of the summer racing calendar. With its origins tracing back to 1869, the Galway Plate remains one of the most sought-after races. The Galway Hurdle further adds to the allure of the week. The unique blend of National Hunt (jump) racing and Flat racing makes Ballybrit a favorite among racing enthusiasts.

Ideal location

Its proximity to Galway city center and the M4 motorway makes it easily accessible, ensuring racegoers can effortlessly immerse themselves in the racing action.

For those passionate about horse racing or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the Galway Racecourse at Ballybrit promises exhilarating races, a vibrant atmosphere, and memories to cherish.

Nestled just a mile from the town on the primary Castlebar route (N84), Ballinrobe Racecourse stands as Mayo's sole racecourse and one of only four in Connacht. Hosting ten riveting race meetings annually from April to September, Ballinrobe offers an unparalleled racing experience.

Why Ballinrobe Stands Out

Picturesque Setting: Set within a natural amphitheatre, Ballinrobe provides a scenic backdrop with the Partry Mountains in the distance and proximity to Loughs Corrib, Carra, and Mask.

Rich Heritage: With a racing history spanning over 230 years, Ballinrobe has been a cornerstone of the Irish racing scene. The current venue has seen races since 1921, with records of meetings dating back to 1774.

Award-Winning Venue: Recognized as the 'Racecourse of the Year' in 2012 by the Irish Racegoers Consultative Forum, Ballinrobe continually strives for excellence, ensuring racegoers have an unforgettable experience.

Unique Track: The slightly elevated right-handed track offers spectators a clear view of every race, with the course running close to an ancient Ring Fort.

Historical Highlights:

Tiger Roll's Debut: Before gaining fame, Tiger Roll clinched his first win over fences at Ballinrobe in the McHale Fusion 3 Plus Beginners Steeplechase in 2016. This race was later renamed the 'McHale Tiger Roll Beginners’ Chase' in 2019.

Racing Legends: Ballinrobe has witnessed the debut of many racing legends, including Doran’s Pride, the 1993 Cheltenham winner, and Traverse, the star of 'Only Fools Buy Horses', who won his first Irish race here in 2003.

A Day Out for Everyone

Ballinrobe Races are more than just an event; they're a tradition, a testament to our rich heritage. The ongoing developments at the track showcase the commitment to preserving this legacy for future generations. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or looking for a family day out, Ballinrobe offers an experience like no other.

For upcoming race meetings and more details, visit Ballinrobe Racecourse.