Tel:  + 353 89 2441078

Louisburgh, Co. Mayo

A day at the Carrowniskey Races, Louisburgh is a family fun day. There may be ten races on the beach, two local races for horses and ponies and eight MHPRA races. There will be bookies on the day to have a bet. The local pony race is Race 3 and the last race is the local horse race.

Lots of family fun and entertainment for everybody on the day with a bouncy castle, ice cream van, food and drink stalls, public bar and dancing. 

Beach racing with horses first became a popular form of entertainment in the last century with the early races in this area taking place on Carrowmore Beach, just outside the village of Louisburgh. These races then moved further along the coast to the beach at Cross near Killeen and then to the beach at Carrowniskey.  The last of the races took place in 1982 and were held at nearby Killadoon Beach.

The racing program in those times was The Parish Race,Two Open Races, Farmer’s Plate and then a Handicapped Race.

There was also a Donkey Derby as well as some sports events that included a Sack Race, a Three Legged Race, a Tug-of-War and of course the compulsory Egg and Spoon Race.

The original races always took place on a Wednesday, as this was a half-day closing in the nearby town of Westport and therefore a better crowd following was ensured.

Funding for these races was provided from local house to house collections.

The races were revived after a 28 year absence in 2010.

Now the strand caters for ten to twelve races. The majority of the races are filled with thoroughbreds under the auspices of the MHPRA along with some local races. These local ponies and non-thoroughbreds add some friendly competition to the day.

An entertaining day is to be had for all ages. Children are catered for with a variety of entertainment; whilst adults can place a bet, have a beverage and a bite while watching the races.

The Carrowniskey Races would like to extend their thanks to all their sponsors for their generosity in previous years and the up and coming Carrowniskey Races

Music and Dancing in the Marquee

Licensed Bar/Bookies/Food

Free  entry to Race Dance in P Dan's on the night.

This brilliant day out has something for everyone, with kiddies entertainment, local food and coffee stands. Also a bar, music and the bookies!

An unbelievable strand with plans for an 8 race card including two local races.

Can't wait to see you there next year.