Galway Races

Ballybrit, July/August

Background

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Galway Races at Ballybrit has a long history, dating back to 1869.� The unique week long racing festival plays host to a total of 51 sponsored races as well as a number of exciting events including Galway Races Big Bash, Ladies Day (Best Dressed Person Competition) and Mad Hatter Day.�
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The Venue
Ballybrit racecourse is located 5km outside of Galway City and can be reached within 3km of Galway Airport.� The Guinness and Oyster Marquee hosts the Big Bash on the Monday of the Festival.� This event promises racing tips as well as spot prizes and first class hospitality.� Entrance to the tent is free.� �
Ladies Day marks the Thursday of the festival, when the Best Dressed Person Competition takes place in the Anthony Ryan marquee.� A generous prize is up for grabs for the lady who is deemed to be most stylish on the day.� Meanwhile, the Mad Hatter competition on Sunday invites budding Philip Treacys to let their imagination run wild in designing distinctive hats and headwear.� The designer of the wackiest or most creative piece is richly rewarded with a holiday worth up to �8000.�
Admission fees for race meetings vary between �20 and �30.� Tickets can be booked online from the official website or bought on the day.� Entry to Ladies Day and Mad Hatters Day is free.� Judges casually wander through the hopefuls and invite potential prizewinners to the Anthony Ryan marquee for judging.�
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Getting There
Galway Races at Ballybrit Racecourse is easily accessible by car.� If driving from the north, follow the N17.� Those travelling from the east should take the N6, while the N18 leads to Galway from the south.� From the Airport, turn left and follow the Monivea Road to the traffic light junction.� The Galway Race Course entrance lies on the right hand side.�
The distance from Dublin to Galway is approximately 140 miles and takes around 3 hours.� Galway can be reached within two hours of Limerick.� �
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