Galway Races dress code, bag policy and 'banned' items
And while there's cash to be made on the track with over €2.1 million in prize money up for grabs across 53 races, the stakes are also high when it comes to fashion at the Galway venue.
Although there is no official dress code at Irish racecourses, smart casual attire is usually a safe option.
Thursday and Friday offer the perfect opportunity to showcase your style and take part in fashion competitions, with exciting prizes to be won in the best-dressed contests.
This year, The Ladies Day fashion panel will consist of style insiders Mandy Maher, Marietta Doran, and Lisa McGowan, who won the contest in 2016.
Speaking about what she is looking for in style this Thursday, Lisa said: "To be back here as a judge feels like a full circle moment for me.
"I'll be keeping an eye out for individuality and confidence - those little touches that make someone stand out." The 2016 best dressed Lady Lisa McGowan from Tullamore, Offaly (Image: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne)
The Best Dressed competition is also getting its own glow-up with skincare brand Ella & Jo named as this year's sponsor.
"Ladies Day has always been about expressing your individuality and celebrating personal style," said Niamh Ryan, co-founder of Ella & Jo, who will also serve as a Sponsor Judge.
"We're so excited to bring that same sense of fun and confidence to this year's event, and we can't wait to see the incredible outfits on show."
On Friday, ladies will have a second chance to nab the most stylish prize at Athlone Town Centre 'Friday's Most Stylish' from 4pm.
Celebrity judge Kayleigh Trappe has been named as this year's judge along with Head Judge Marietta Doran. Kayleigh Trappe.
The pair will be seeking stand-out style with sustainability in mind from attendees on the day.
This year sees the biggest Prize Fund on offer to date for the competition winner with a Shop & Stay Break courtesy of Athlone Town Centre.
The lucky winner will leave Galway Racecourse with a €2,500 Athlone Town Centre Gift Card, a luxury two night break in the four star Sheraton Athlone Hotel in a Deluxe Tower Room with dinner and spa treatments and a €500 voucher for Fields The Jewellers, who are one of the many retailers located in Athlone Town Centre.
And while ladies will be dressing to impress to nab the impressive prize, punters need to be prepared for Ireland's ever-changing weather. It's wise to check the forecast when planning your outfit for the races.
Punters need to be aware though that backpacks, and large bags are not permitted into the course, so ladies, pack lightly. Bags must be under 29.7cm × 21.7cm.
If you do need to bring a backpack, there are no bag storage facilities available so please leave it at home.
Bags could be searched on the way into the racetrack, so horse racing fans need to give plenty of time in case there are lengthy queues.
Patrons should note that the bringing of alcohol, fireworks, smoke canisters, bottles, glasses, cans, flags, banners, poles, distress signals, laser pointers and other similar articles or containers, including anything which could or might be used as a weapon is strictly prohibited.
You may also be searched at the entrance to Galway Racecourse which may include a full body pat down and/or use of hand held metal detectors.
Any item(s), which may reasonably be considered for use as a weapon, or which may cause danger or disruption to any other persons at the event, will be confiscated – and won't be returned.
If a person does not wish to give consent for a search to take place, Galway Racecourse have a right to refuse admission. A view of Galway Racecourse (Image: ©INPHO/James Crombie)
This racecourse policy is endorsed and supported by An Garda Síochána who will always be in the vicinity of the racecourse's designated search areas.
Any complaint or issue should be notified to the Gardaí on the day.
Signage is clearly displayed where searches are located and the policy and exact procedure are explained clearly by trained search teams, who are in place on the day before any search commences.
Buggies and strollers are welcome – these are subject to searches and if you need to bring a medical bag with you, just let security know in advance.
Tickets are still available and can be purchased on the Galway Races website. Punters can choose between different tickets including premium experiences, single day and multi-day tickets, as well as group packages.
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