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There are a great many outstanding horseracing venues in Ireland and their individual appeal is based on a variety of factors. There is of course the world class international courses which stage some of the most highly regarded fixtures in the calendar but to miss out on the charm and ambience of a local countryside course is to miss the deep-rooted horseracing psyche so inherent in Irish culture, tradition and sport.
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The West of Ireland is renowned as place in which the pace of life is slower and where friendliness and good hospitality count for a great deal. The perfect environment for a country racecourse, all these factors come together in Ballinrobe racing.
Situated in Co. Mayo, the town of Ballinrobe takes its name from the River Robe which runs through it and the lush green landscape punctuated by the river and two lakes makes the perfect backdrop to Ballinrobe racing. The racecourse is situated 2km from the town and can be accessed easily via the main transport routes, by road from Galway and Castlebar, and by train to Claremorris, where there are buses to Ballinrobe. The nearest airport is Galway and those lucky or rich enough to arrive by helicopter can do so by arrangement.
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Ballinrobe racing has been a feature of the town since 1773 and staged at the present course since 1921. Perhaps it is this long and enduring history of horseracing in the town which makes the atmosphere at the course so typically laid back. Ballinrobe Racecourse is one of those places to escape to and where all the pressures of life evaporate in the fun of the races and warmth of the hospitality. Much of the atmosphere is provided by the lie of the course which occupies an elevated position around which is a natural amphitheatre. This means great race views wherever you are and an easy going approach to finding your vantage point.
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Another part of the appeal is the timing of the fixtures, with eight meetings during the summer and seven in the evening giving plenty of chances to enjoy some Ballinrobe racing during summer holidays in Co. Mayo.
The right-handed oval track covers a distance of one mile and one furlong on which both National Hunt and Flat races are contested.
Dorans Pride is a particular local hero, having been owned and trained in Ballinrobe and earning in excess of €1 million in his career at the course. The horse also achieved success at Cheltenham, being placed in the Gold Cup and winning the Cheltenham Stayers Hurdle.
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The good quality racing on show at Ballinrobe is complemented by an array of dining, drinks, and betting facilities. Adult entry to the course costs €15, with €10 concessions for students and OAPs. A whole new generation of racegoers are encouraged with the admission of children under 14 for free. Dining options are provided by a self-service restaurant and a fast food outlet and drinks are available at the bars.
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Corporate events have become a mainstay of horseracing and groups of between 10 and 160 people can be catered for within a new restaurant facility which offers the full silver service five-course dining experience. Marquees are also erected on race days and provide further spaces for private parties and corporate race day dining, with hospitality packages available to suit.
Those looking to continue the fun after the Ballinrobe racing has ended can head into town and make the most of the live traditional music and dance which features in many of the pubs. The town and surrounding Co. Mayo countryside hold further delights for those more interested in outdoor pursuits.
This website is operated by Websitebrokers Limited and is not affiliated to any one racecourse or group of racecourses. |
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