This year’s record prize fund that now exceeds €2m has, not surprisingly, grabbed the attention of several of the leading English trainers to add some friendly anglo-celt rivalry to the occasion. However Dermot Weld remains the undisputed king of Galway and Irish eyes will be looking to his Majestic Concorde in the highlight of day one, the GPT Galway (QR) Handicap to get the festival off to a flyer for the punters.

Detailed coverage and tips of todays racing can be found here courtesy of the Irish Independent while RTE provide live coverage of the festival at this link.

For anyone looking to have a flutter there is some very useful tips privided by racing expert Donn McClean at his blog. For whats it worth my money will be on Arc Bleu in the 7.00 race  hoping Tony Martin can get one over the bookies again.

Best of luck and enjoy!

The Festival has established itself as the pinnacle in Irish Racing and arguably the most lavish, colourful and sociable fixture in the Irish Racing Calendar. Its not only the quality of racing that sets Galway apart, but the coming together of racing fanatic and party goer combine to make the atmosphere something that can only be experienced to fully appreciate. True Irish Craic is guaranteed not to mention the odd one or a dozen pints of Guinness!

The excellent racing, oyster bars, champagne and beer tents, jazz bands, trade stands, race card competitions and even a best-dressed lady competition on Thursday, combine to ensure there is something for everyone and be part of what is truly an unforgettable experience.

Prepare early and don’t be disappointed:

With close on quarter of a million people expected to attend this year, I strongly advise you to book your Galway Accommodation early before a tent is your only option
Directions to the Galway Races can be found here on myguideIreland as well as some testimonials from Guests who have experienced it for themselves.

Be sure not to miss it in 2008.