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Irish Independent
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Galway Races 2025: Share your best photos from race week
The 2025 Galway Races kicked off on Monday and runs through to Sunday. Share your best photos with us! Today at 09:43 One of Galway's most iconic weeks has arrived, the Galway Races, hot on the heels of the Galway International Arts Festival. With seven days of craic, racing, and fashion now underway, we're calling on racegoers to submit their best photos to the Irish Independent. Whether it's the glamour of Ladies Day, the thrill of Galway Plate Day, the creativity of Sunday's Mad Hatters competition, or simply the electric atmosphere around Ballybrit, we want to see it all.
Irish Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
In pictures - Stylish punters soak up the action on Day One of the Galway Races
The 156th Galway Races is officially underway with what promises to be another unforgettable week of top-class racing, fashion, craic and crowds. It is one of the biggest events on the Irish social and sporting calendar, with thousands of punters flocking to the Ballybrit track on Monday for the week-long festival's curtain-raiser. Sporting floral dresses and elegant fascinators, women looked the part while men got suited and booted for the occasion. There is no official dress code at Irish racecourses, but many punters took the opportunity to look their best on the opening day. The Summer Festival runs from Monday, July 28 to Sunday, August 3 - combining the very best in horse racing and stunning fashion. The Galway Races has become as much about the atmosphere and entertainment as the racing itself, with live music, food, pop-up events, and the ever-popular Ladies Day all forming part of the experience. With the sun shining on Monday, punters could be seen wearing their summer wear with sunglasses aplenty on Day One of the festival. Check out our picture gallery here to get a taste of the action. Jockey Eoin Kelly tickles young Daire Kelly before riding Ciao Adios in the 2nd race at Galway Races (Image: INPHO/Morgan Treacy) 1 of 17 A view of the first fence in The Iggy Daly Easyfix Handicap Hurdle (Image: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy) 2 of 17 Oliver Kelly and Grace Kirwan from Galway enjoying the first day of the Galway Races (Image: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy) 3 of 17 JP McManus arrives via helicopter at Galway Racecourse, Galway, Ireland (Image: Niall Carson/PA Wire) 4 of 17 Rosalind Lipsett from Dublin enjoying the first day of the Galway Races (Image: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy) 5 of 17
Irish Independent
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Galway Races: Gunner, the garda dog steals the show as ladies pull out all the stops on day one
Even though the hugely popular Ladies Day isn't until Thursday there was still plenty of glamour on Monday especially at the colourful flower wall. However, a dark cloud was evident during the sombre minute's silence was observed for the late Irish horse trainer Edward O'Grady ahead of the day's first race. Mr O'Grady's death at age 75 was announced by his family on Monday morning. As always Ballybrit had all its iconic features, from the champagne bar to the Irish Independent's newspaper horse, but this year it also has a new addition, the 'Beauty Paddock'. There, the Irish Independent met Keith Hanaway, pop-up manager for Vision Ireland, who said: 'We have pop ups in different locations throughout the country, and we bring all of our preloved, donated designer stock to different areas and raise money for Vision Ireland charity.' Mr Hanaway said the Beauty Paddock is a dedicated beauty zone for all racegoers. 'There's a small refresh stand where people come get their touch-ups. There's Ella and Jo products and skin care. Then from the Vision Ireland side, we've got a curated range of pre-loved and premium donated and designer stock. 'It's something different, but we tried it at Punchestown [Racecourse] this year and it was really successful. If it's as successful as we hope, it will be brilliant.' As hundreds of people entered the gates, it soon became evident one new face stole on the spotlight, Gunner the garda dog. The Cocker Spaniel works from Donegal down to Galway searching for drugs, cash and firearms. However, today he mostly enjoyed pets and belly rubs from racegoers. ADVERTISEMENT His handler, also on duty, told the Irish Independent: 'There has been a massive increase in interest for the dog unit because he's only new here in Galway. It's the first time ever for Galway to have a dog unit. 'We're just finished arts week and we're going into the races straight away. So, he's busy. 'We'll be around for the week so there's lots of opportunity for people to come and meet Gunner.' MEP Maria Walsh, who grew up only 30 minutes away from the racecourse, is a frequent visitor to the Galway Races and she said the opening day of the festival always has a lovely atmosphere. 'Monday is usually a lovely crowd, there's a lot of locals, the sun will be shining I hope for the rest of the day, and you're just getting the cheer right before it takes off,' she said. The Mayo local said she finds it 'gorgeous' seeing the evolution of the Galway Races. 'I think there's such a gorgeous balance of more and more people getting involved,' she said. 'As long as we get the good weather then we get thousands to the West of the country, and you see such a big investment. In my work as a policymaker on the European front, you want to see that investment on an annual basis because it grows and you can really showcase Ireland for its best.' Mayor of Galway Mike Cubbard also joined the crowds headed to view the track. 'It's the best week of the year in the best city in the world," he said. 'The atmosphere is always brilliant right across the city centre, right up here to Ballybrit; people are looking forward to it.' While many are excited for the famous Ladies Day, Mayor Cubbard is most looking forward to seeing the excited children of Galway and further afield taking in the magic. 'There are kids here who are the next generation of the Galway Festival, and they're here enjoying it,' he said. 'You can have a drink here; there's loads of food around here; the fashion is fantastic as well. But to me, it's a real family week.' Aside from Mayor Cubbard, most punters when asked had no doubts about their favourite race day: Ladies Day. Mother and daughter Siobhan and Jessie Smith travelled from Birr, County Offaly, for the week. On Thursday, Jessie' sister Kate will join them and the family looks forward to spending the most fashionable day in Ballybrit together. Jessie was overwhelmed by the scale of the races and the incredible fashion, while Siobhan explained her family come to Galway every year: 'We love it here. We love the atmosphere, we love the style, it's just fantastic. Galway is always brilliant.' Pam Richardson–Hoare described herself as an 'avid' racegoer and her experience shows as her outfit grabbed the attention of many this afternoon. 'I started racing in 2019. I love it. The Galway Races is such an iconic race meet.' Talking about her outfit, she added: 'I love to experiment on race week, and I always just push the boundaries and wear something quirky. It's always lovely to have a pop of colour when you're at a summer race meet.' The Limerick native, who now lives in Galway, also cannot wait for Thursday. 'I'm looking forward to seeing the style on Ladies Day, because it's always phenomenal, every year.'
Irish Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Galway Races dress code, bag policy and 'banned' items
Almost 130,000 are set to descend onto Ballybrit racecourse this week for the Galway Races. 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. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
Irish Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Galway Races 'Ladies Day' last minute fashion deals
It is one of the most eagerly anticipated horseracing showpieces in Ireland - the 2025 Galway Races Summer Festival is here. Punters flock from all over Ireland and further afield to soak up the atmosphere at the world famous Ballybrit race track. Aside from a healthy bank account and a trusty race card, the best threads fashion has to offer is an absolute must for any would be high roller. 'Ladies Day' takes place at the Galway Races on Thursday July 31 and what better way to turn heads than a stunning dress at a knockdown price? Next has a stunning Jolie Moi Dark Red Velvet Side Tie Midi Dress on sale. Next has slashed the price from €86 to €34. The dress comes in a variety of colours, including black, dark red, green, purple and red. The midi dress is also available in sizes eight to 18. The dress from Next is also a hit with customers. "A lovely figure hugging dress. Sumptuous material. Easy to wash. Very easy to wear," wrote one customer who bought the dress in dark red. Another satisfied customer said: "I received this garment promptly after purchasing it online. It is a far better quality and fit than i had expected and will definitely be purchasing another in a different colour very soon." The Next Midi Dress. (Image: Next) Meanwhile, River Island also has you covered when it comes to summery midi dresses and they are flying off the shelves. The gorgeous Sleeveless Plisse Belted Midi Dress is on sale for €59. Elsewhere, Very has what can only be described as a gorgeous ruffle trim maxi dress on sale for an affordable €100. The dress comes in sizes 14 to 26 and currently enjoys an impressive five star review. "This is a beautiful dress, well made and lovely material," wrote a female customer who purchased the dress less than two weeks ago. "The only thing I would say is that it feels a bit heavy when on. Unfortunately, I returned mine as I felt it would clash with the wedding theme colours that I was attending." Another customer said: "I felt so confident at the party and I got lots of compliments about how lovely the dress was. By far the best dress I have ever bought. Thank you Very!" The Sleeveless Plisse Belted Midi Dress available from River Island. (Image: River Island) The ruffle trim maxi dress from Very. (Image: Very) If midi and maxi dresses aren't your thing then there's always the option to go for something more traditional. BooHoo has an amazing 50% per cent off offer on its black Cinched Waist Shirt Dress. It is has been reduced from €40 down to €20 and comes in sizes eight to 16. However, if you want the dress for 'Ladies Day' at the Galway Races you will need to pay the €7.99 express delivery charge. Marks & Spencer also have beautiful options. The Floral Tie Neck Midaxi Tea Dress is currently on sale for €65 in both ivory mix and floral mix designs. The dress comes in three lengths: petite, regular and tall as well as sizes six to 18. The Boohoo black Cinched Waist Shirt Dress. (Image: Boohoo) The Tie Neck Midaxi Tea Dress from Marks & Spencer. (Image: Marks & Spencer) The description of the ivory mix version of the dress reads: "With its dainty floral print, this tea dress is a timeless choice. It's cut in a comfy regular fit, with a fluttery tie at the neckline. The short sleeves are gently gathered for a touch of volume, while the hemline falls to an on-trend midaxi length." The 2025 Galway Races runs Monday July 28 to Sunday August 3 - for more information visit the official Galway Races Summer Festival website. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
