What are the Laytown Races?
Staged but once a year, on the sands of Laytown Strand, this fixture might be a bucket list destination for some, and a pilgrimage for others... but it remains, at heart, a locals' annual evening out. Timed to take place after school and work, and before sunset, the informal point-to-point atmosphere extends to both the beachside viewing and the repurposed village green.
What's the itinerary?
Lying up the coast from Dublin, and about forty-five minutes from the Irish capital by road, we transfer you to and from your Dublin accommodation on raceday, and to and from the airport and hotel. Enjoy breakfast with your accommodation, but be aware it's general admission only when you get to this egalitarian temporary racecourse.
What happened in 2023?
It was another strong year for Laytown's specialist trainer Ado McGuinness, who put two scores on the board. Elsewhere, with Rachael Blackmore still hunting for success at one of the only Irish tracks where she's yet to ride a winner, jockey Daniel King took two on the bounce, before finishing third in the evening's nominal feature: the Pride of Place Maiden.
What about transfers to and from Laytown?
As mentioned, you needn't worry about a thing when it comes to transfers to and from the airport, and transfers to and from the beach, travelling through the countryside of County Meath. On the morning of racing, take in the attractions of Dublin city: achieving the best of both worlds, with Ireland's town and country readily available in equal measure.