Galway issue update on Festival plans

This year's Galway Festival is still four months away but the management team at Ballybrit are already taking action in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The week long Festival is scheduled to take place this year from July 27 until August 2, and Galway Manager Michael Moloney has issued the following statement:

"We hope this finds you and your family safe and well during these times. Our thoughts are with everyone at this difficult time as people in every walk of life are impacted by what’s happening with the coronavirus (COVID-19).

"In light of the constantly evolving situation regarding coronavirus, we are continuing to closely monitor and respond to developments on an active basis, receiving advice from Horse Racing Ireland, the Government and the Public Health Authorities as we continue to plan for The Galway Races Summer Festival.

"Following the announcement by An Taoiseach last week, the majority of our business operations are taking place through remote working, and our physical operations have been reduced to the practical minimum while maintaining the security of the racecourse. Please continue to check our website and social media platforms for the latest updates on The Galway Races Summer Festival and COVID-19.

"We remain in the planning phase for the Summer Festival but we also appreciate you may have concern’s regarding tickets already purchased for the Galway Races. We are still months away from our event, but should the races be abandoned for any reason in advance, a full refund would be issued to our customers.

"For now, please look after yourselves and each other. If you have any further concerns, please do contact us by either email: [email protected] or via our social media platforms."

Michael Moloney and team at Galway Racecourse