Controversial tax breaks in recent years in Ireland have encouraged stud farmers and others with an interest in horse racing to develop the sport here, although there was never any real need for the government incentives. The Irish have always had a fondness for horse racing, and the fact that Irish jockeys and horses frequently win races at big UK events is testament to this fact.

The Galway Races is the big summer event. With celebrities, politicians and successful entrepreneurs in attendance in their droves, you can be sure that you’ll be rubbing shoulders with a higher class of sports fan. Some of them have been known to arrive at the races by helicopter, an extravagance that is now balked at in the media because of the state of the world economy. However, the Champagne Tent at the Galway races is one venue worth a visit if you’re looking to develop business contacts.

The summer festival at the Galway Races runs for an entire seven day week, and local businesses and offices have been known to shut up shop early so that employees can attend. On Ladies’ Day, the best turned out member of the fairer gender is awarded a prize, and there are various other events – other than horse racing – that take place over the course of the week. The festival in Galway runs from the last Monday of July each year. If you’re looking for local accommodation during the festival, you’d be advised to book early to guarantee a place to stay. Although there has been a dip in the popularity of the races due to the economic downturn, hotels and other accommodations in the area have been known to be booked out during festivals.

The Autumn Racing Festival is another Galway Races event, a little quieter than the summer event. The Autumn festival has been moved forward to the end of August this year.

On Ireland’s east coast you will find the Leopardstown Race Track in Dublin. It holds a festival over Christmas and it also houses a golf centre.

You will find all of the expected facilities at all of the racetracks in Ireland. Both Galway and Leopardstown offer car parking facilities. Screens both big and small feature, with the races being broadcast over them in case you’re off in the bar ordering booze while the race you’ve bet your house on is taking place. Betting stalls are located on the grounds, with various betting shops competing for your custom. Because horse racing is the sport of kings, you won’t be surprised to learn that the bars and restaurants at the race tracks are usually of a high standard, although the prices aren’t too prohibitive. Outdoor seating is not unusual, so you can view the races live while you drink or eat. If shivering in the cold Irish weather at Christmas time nursing a pint of cold beer isn’t your idea of a good time, patio heaters will keep you warm if the weather has taken a turn for the worse.