Galway Races Summer Festival, if it goes ahead, will not be open to the public

For public health and safety reasons, the Galway Race Committee has decided that the 2020 Galway Races Summer Festival, due to be held from July 27 to August 2, will not be able to take place as an event open to the general public this year. The decision was reached in light of the evolving situation regarding Covid-19.

The committee say it may prove possible to run the event behind closed doors, depending on government policy and the approval of Horse Racing Ireland and Irish Horse Racing Regulatory Board.

“This would be for the benefit of the racing industry, our valued partners and our television audiences at home and internationally,” said a spokesperson. “We are currently planning for this scenario and we will update you on progress as and when we can.”

Customers who have already paid for admission tickets and corporate hospitality will be able to avail of a full refund policy, the committee has assured.

“While the teams at Galway Racecourse and Lydon House Catering will commence this process immediately, please bear with us as our teams are operating remotely due to the current government restrictions in place. We appreciate your patience while this is being carried out,” the spokesperson explained.

“We would like to sincerely thank you for your support and understanding during this unpreceded time. Our thoughts are with all those affected as a result of Covid-19. We offer our deepest gratitude to staff at the HSE, frontline workers and members of our community nationwide for their dedication and perseverance.

“We look forward to being able to welcome you all back to Ballybrit when it is safe to do so. For now, please look after yourselves. Stay safe and healthy.”