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sport · Sunday 6 September 2026 · 2:00pm 
Ballinrobe September Races
At Ballinrobe Racecourse · Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo
At Ballinrobe Racecourse · Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo
A Sunday afternoon at Ballinrobe Racecourse is the sort of day that draws families, casual punters, and lifelong racing fans in equal measure. Ballinrobe is the only racecourse in County Mayo and one of just four in Connacht, so each fixture carries a genuine sense of occasion for the west of Ireland. The September meeting is a National Hunt card - hurdles rather than flat racing - run across an intimate right-handed oval that sits in a natural amphitheatre with Lough Carra visible in the middle distance. It suits anyone who wants competitive racing without the crowds and formality of a big city track.
Racing at Ballinrobe has a history stretching back to 1773, and the current site has been in use since 1921. The course was named Racecourse of the Year by the Irish Racegoers Consultative Forum in 2012, and a programme of investment since then has added a new grandstand, a pavilion restaurant, improved stables, and upgraded facilities throughout.
The track itself is about a mile around - tight enough that front-runners hold an advantage and every stride is visible from the stands. National Hunt racing here means hurdles, so expect a card of competitive jumping through the afternoon from the 2:00pm first race. On-course bookmakers, the tote, bar service, and catering are all available. There is no dress code: racegoers turn up in everything from smart-casual to wellies. Parking at the course is free.
Ballinrobe sits roughly 20km south of Castlebar on the N84. From Galway, the N84 north via Headford is the most direct route and takes around 45 minutes. From Dublin, take the M4/N5 west to Castlebar, then head south on the N84 - around two and a half hours in reasonable traffic.
Public transport to Ballinrobe is limited. The nearest rail station is Claremorris, about 21km away; from there a taxi or arranged lift is needed to reach the course. Driving is the practical option for most visitors. Ample car parking is available on site at no charge.
Ballinrobe town itself is an easy ten-minute walk from the course and has pubs and cafes well used to race-day visitors. The area around Lough Carra to the north is worth a look if you have time before or after racing - quiet lanes, old abbey ruins, and good birdwatching. There is more to see in Ballinrobe and across Co. Mayo.
Heading to Ballinrobe Racecourse in Ballinrobe? Mayo has plenty more to see. Read the Ballinrobe area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.