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Why is the Galway Plate so tricky to ride? From first-fence positioning to mid-race tactics

irishracing.com news

irishracing.com news

30-7-25 Galway.Western Fold and Galway native Danny Gilligan (white silks blue stars) win the Tote Galway Plate (Grade 3).Healy Racing Photo
© Healy Racing Photos

Paddy Flood who enjoyed success at Galway during his time as a jockey explains why Galway is so tricky to ride.

  • The chaotic starts of the Galway Plate rivalled only by Cheltenham

  • The need for a unique horse with speed rather than a typical three-mile staying chaser type, the awkwardness of the first fence

  • The first fence positioning

  • Mid-race tactics

  • The final two fences and finding your rhythm

  • Taking the “Ruby Line” and why Paul Townend rides Galway so well

Watch Paddy Flood’s full analysis on what you need to win a Galway Plate

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