Claremorris Point-to-Point Racing

Point-to-point racing is horse racing at its most unfiltered - amateur riders, hunt horses, and a course marked out by red and white flags in what was an ordinary agricultural field until a few days before. Claremorris Racecourse hosts this summer meeting for fans who want the sport close up, without the corporate polish of the flat-race calendar. It suits anyone who likes racing but finds the big tracks too formal, and families who want an outdoor afternoon with real atmosphere and a few honest bets.

What to expect

The action on the day is pure amateur National Hunt. Riders are amateur jockeys - many of them hunt riders keeping their horses fit and sharp - competing over fences across a temporary course. Point-to-points across Ireland have launched the careers of riders like Ruby Walsh and Davy Russell, so you are watching the same grassroots circuit that produced some of the best names in the sport.

There are typically several races spread across the afternoon, with the first off at 1:00pm. Because the course is temporary rather than a permanent grandstand affair, spectators can get genuinely close to the action - standing beside a fence and feeling the ground shake as a horse clears it in full flight is something you simply do not get at a proper racecourse. Bookmakers will be on the day, covering both the point-to-point card and any off-course racing running simultaneously. Food and refreshment stalls set up on site, with the usual burgers and hot food that goes with an Irish race day.

Getting there

Claremorris sits on the N17 in south Mayo, roughly midway between Galway and Castlebar. From Galway city it is about 50 minutes by road; from Castlebar about 25 minutes. Claremorris has its own train station on Station Road, served by Irish Rail, and Bus Éireann routes including the 421 and 430 connect the town to nearby centres. Ireland West Airport Knock is approximately 31km to the north, the nearest airport for visitors travelling from further afield. Ample car parking is available on the racecourse grounds, as is standard for point-to-point meetings.

While you’re in Claremorris

Claremorris is a compact market town with a good few pubs and cafes to settle into after the races. The surrounding south Mayo countryside - drumlins, bogland, and wide sky - repays a slower drive if you have the time. There is more to see in Claremorris and across Co. Mayo.

Good to know

• Date: Sunday 5 July 2026
• First race: 1:00pm
• Admission: from €10
• Venue: Claremorris Racecourse, Claremorris, Co. Mayo
• Check fixtures and details: pointtopoint.ie
• Food and refreshments available on site; bookmakers on course