Hi
We may be in Galway during the end of July horse racing festival. Has anyone been? We thought that might be pretty interesting (and maybe crowded).
We also wondered about seeing some hurling? Is there a season for that? Is it popular in one part of Ireland or another?
thx!
Horseracing in Ireland is fantastic!! I've been to at least eight different tracks (season ticket holder in Killarney) and it will be fun, no matter what.
Know this - Galway Races are some of the most crowded of any in the entire country!! I personally don't recommend it because it's crazy crowded.... but if that's ok with you I'd say go ahead.
Killarney Races are an alternative worth looking at. Small, intimate surroundings where the scenery is spectacular (you can see a castle, mountain, horse race, golf course all in one shot!) and the crowds are small. Small enough to get photos with the jockeys AS THEY COME OFF THE TRACK! Every person I've brought there has been amazed..... And ladies day is QUITE the spectacle!
Why not figure out your itinerary and see if there's a small track on your schedule? Gowran Park; Listowel Races; Limerick Races.....
Susan
expat living in Waterville on the Skellig Coast
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So awesome! We’ll check out those races. We’ll also be up near Sligo...any recommendations for that area ?
Shawn, I've not been north of Achill Island on the West coast - so I don't know Sligo! I'm sure others will help....
Susan - horseracing fanatic!
expat in Waterville, Skellig Coast.....
Galway is a great city, but it will be crowded, noisy and expensive during the races. You are far better off visiting the city when the races are over, if you can. Re hurling, you are coming at the start of the championship season (the biggest competition for the elite county teams) and you should be able to see a game. They are usually played on Sundays. But you could also just find a local, club game pretty much anywhere. These games are not the elite teams, but they have local flavour and you would enjoy it without having to pay to see the more elite county teams. Lastly, about Sligo. Great choice! The town itself is lively and has lots of good restaurants and pubs. Strandhill is only a short drive from Sligo town and has a great beach, very popular with surfers. You can get a seaweed bath on the seafront there; it's to die for! Your skin will thank you. Lissadell House is worth a visit, as is Parke's Castle. There is a lot to see, and Sligo will be much quieter than Galway. For some reason, it is not on the radar of most American tourists. Enjoy.
