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Harrington one shot behind Čejka at The Senior Open

Alex Cejka of Germany reacts on the 18th green during Day Three of The Senior Open at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club. Credit: Richard Martin-Roberts/Getty Images.

Dubliner Pádraig Harrington is one shot behind overnight leader Alex Čejka at The Senior Open at Royal Portcawl.

The German carded four birdies, including at the last hole, to card a three over par 74 and to move into the third round lead.

“I really didn’t hit many great shots,” Čejka conceded. “I kind of drove it in play but had three, four really poor shots, cost me a bogey, but overall, I made a couple birdies. Three over is three over. It was a tough day for everybody. Still on top of the leaderboard, so I’m pleased.”

Pádraig Harrington and Englishman Phillip Archer were two of seven players to shoot a level par 71, the low round of the day. They moved into a tie for second place alongside New Zealand’s Steven Alker and three-time Major winner Vijay Singh on one over par.

“I didn’t feel I had done much wrong”

Following his third round, Pádraig Harrington said:

“I didn’t feel like I had done much wrong to be three over. In one sense I felt okay about how I was playing and the other sense, I wasn’t sure. You’re never quite sure how the rest of the field is going to go. I’m four over par, the leader is four under, and you’re kind of worried you’re going to get eight, nine shots at the end of the day, which is too much.“Obviously a big break on the last. Hit 3-wood, 9-iron to five feet. It was inches. I was going to hit the putt left lip, and I was standing over and it was blowing and blowing. I ended up hitting it — tried to hit it left half, probably hit it straight and just got in the right side.“You know, I’ve chipped poorly this week. That’s my strength and I chipped poorly. I had two big long weeks. You know, I didn’t finish as well as I would have wanted in Scotland, and then The Open, being a major, I was just working hard for two weeks. You know what, I put down a few down chips just to being mentally tired.”Second round leader Alker struggled to a five over par round of 76 but still remains in the hunt for his second Senior Major title after recording an ace at the par three 15th hole, the 14th in Senior Open history.

Clarke and Mooney

American Jerry Kelly and Scotland’s Grieg Hutcheon share sixth place on two over par, while 1999 Open Champion Paul Lawrie, America’s Mario Tiziani and Australia’s Richard Green are a shot further back in a tie for eighth.

Darren Clarke shot a third round of 73, to go with round of 73 and 74 respectively. The Dungannon man is on 220, seven shots off the leader.

Damian Mooney carded his worst round of the competition so far, singing for a 75 on Saturday. He is a further two strokes behind his fellow Irish golfer Darren Clarke.Germany’s Bernhard Langer remains in the hunt for a fifth Senior Open title – and third at Royal Porthcawl – as he sits in a tie for 11th on four over, alongside nine others including Welsh duo Bradley Dredge and Phil Price.

Scores after round three (select scores):

213 A CEJKA (GER) 68 71 74,  214 P HARRINGTON 75 68 71, P ARCHER (ENG) 73 70 71, V SINGH (FIJ) 69 72 73, S ALKER (NZL) 70 68 76,  215 J KELLY (USA) 73 71 71, G HUTCHEON (SCO) 72 68 75,  216 R GREEN (AUS) 72 73 71, M TIZIANI (USA) 68 75 73, P LAWRIE (SCO) 70 71 75,  217 J SINGH (IND) 69 77 71, M JONZON (SWE) 74 72 71, E MCINTOSH (SCO) 74 71 72, S KHAN (ENG) 73 71 73, T GILLIS (USA) 70 74 73, P PRICE (WAL) 72 72 73, B DREDGE (WAL) 71 72 74, T JAIDEE (THA) 73 70 74, B LANGER (GER) 73 69 75,  218 K CHOI (KOR) 75 72 71, K DUKE (USA) 71 73 74, C MONTGOMERIE (SCO) 72 70 76, A HANSEN (DEN) 72 69 77,  219 M MOLINA (ARG) 72 74 73, J HAEGGMAN (SWE) 74 71 74, C DENNIS (USA) 72 72 75, P SJ?LAND (SWE) 73 71 75, P STREETER (ENG) 73 71 75, J SANDELIN (SWE) 70 73 76, E CANONICA (ITA) 72 70 77, P BROADHURST (ENG) 70 71 78,  220 D CLARKE 73 74 73, G DAY (USA) 76 71 73, K TANIGAWA (USA) 73 72 75, D MCGUIGAN (SCO) 75 69 76, G ORR (SCO) 71 72 77, S BERTSCH (USA) 73 69 78, K HORNE (RSA) 70 72 78, S TINNING (DEN) 72 70 78,  221 R GONZALEZ (ARG) 73 73 75, M CAMPBELL (NZL) 77 69 75, T PETROVIC (USA) 74 72 75, H FRAZAR (USA) 73 72 76, D BRANSHAW (USA) 73 72 76,  222 D MOONEY 73 74 75, R CHAPMAN (ENG) 77 70 75, H FUJITA (JPN) 75 72 75, D MCKENZIE (AUS) 76 70 76, J KEMP (AM) (ENG) 74 71 77, J REMESY (FRA) 72 71 79, 

All Ireland Football Final 2023 – Dublin v Kerry : Preview, Live Scores and Starting Teams

Dublin v Kerry 2023
Dublin v Kerry 2023

2023 All-Ireland Football Final Preview: Dublin vs. Kerry

Click here for live scores on Dublin v Kerry

After 62 intense matches, the 2023 GAA All-Ireland Senior Football Championship culminates in an epic showdown between defending champions Kerry and arch-rivals Dublin. The final promises are to be a gripping contest as both teams vie for glory at Croke Park on Sunday, with throw-in scheduled for 3:30 pm.

Chasing History

Kerry, the storied footballing giants, are seeking their 39th title, while Dublin, buoyed by their historic five-in-a-row triumph in 2020, are aiming for their 31st crown. Both sides have shown remarkable form throughout the championship, making the final clash an intriguing spectacle.

Paths to the Final

Dublin’s journey to the final saw them remain unbeaten, with standout performances against Laois, Kildare, and Louth in the Leinster rounds. A thrilling draw with Roscommon added to their impressive run. On the other hand, Kerry showcased their prowess with victories against Tipperary, Clare, and Louth, despite a lone defeat to Mayo in the earlier rounds.

Top Scorers

Dublin’s scoring prowess has been led by Con O’Callaghan, Colm Basquel, and Cormac Costello, while Kerry’s firepower has been driven by David Clifford and Sean O’Shea, making the battle of sharpshooters a captivating aspect of the final.

Championship History

The Dublin-Kerry rivalry has a rich championship history, with Kerry holding the edge with 18 wins compared to Dublin’s 11, along with three draws from their previous 32 encounters. Recent meetings between the two have been incredibly close, adding to the excitement surrounding this year’s final.

All-Ireland Finals

The teams have clashed 16 times in All-Ireland finals, with Kerry holding a slender 8-7 lead, while one final ended in a draw. The 2019 final was particularly memorable as Dublin emerged victorious after a replay against Kerry.

Decade-By-Decade Rivalry

Over the decades, the Dublin-Kerry rivalry has ebbed and flowed, resulting in a closely contested All-Ireland title race. Kerry’s dominance was evident in the 1980s and 2000s, while Dublin had their shining moments in the 1970s and the 2010s.

Coaching Battle

The final will witness the tactical brilliance of Jack O’Connor, guiding Kerry for the seventh time, against Dessie Farrell, in his fourth season as Dublin’s manager. Both coaches have a proven track record, adding another layer of intrigue to the match.

Solid Defense

Kerry’s defense has been rock-solid, conceding no goals in five of their seven championship games. Dublin, too, has an impressive defensive record, having conceded only two goals in their eight matches. The contest will see two resilient backlines facing off.

Final Showdown

David Gough, the experienced Meath referee, will officiate the final, his second time overseeing an All-Ireland senior final after the thrilling draw between Dublin and Kerry in 2019.

With both teams eager to etch their names in history, the 2023 All-Ireland Football Final promises to be a memorable clash of skill, determination, and passion. Football fans around the world are in for a treat as Dublin and Kerry battle it out for ultimate glory on the hallowed grounds of Croke Park.

Starting Teams for Dublin v Kerry 

Kerry (All-Ireland SFC final v Dublin): Shane Ryan; Graham O’Sullivan, Jason Foley, Tom O’Sullivan; Paul Murphy, Tadhg Morley, Gavin White; Diarmuid O’Connor, Jack Barry; Dara Moynihan, Seán O’Shea, Stephen O’Brien; Paudie Clifford, David Clifford, Paul Geaney.

Subs: Shane Murphy (GK), Adrian Spillane, Brian Ó Beaglaoich, Mike Breen, Barry Dan O’Sullivan, Ruairí Murphy, Micheál Burns, Killian Spillane, Dylan Casey, Donal O’Sullivan, Ronan Buckley.

Dublin (SF v Kerry): S Cluxton; E Murchan, M Fitzsimons, D Byrne; J McCarthy, J Small, L Gannon; B Fenton, B Howard; P Small, P Mannion, N Scully; C Costello, C O’Callaghan, C Basquel.

Subs: E Comerford, S Bugler, C Kilkenny, T Lahiff, S McMahon, J McCaffrey, R McGarry, C Murphy, D Newcombe, L O’Dell, D Rock


PATHS TO THE FINAL DUBLIN

• Dublin 4-30 Laois 2-9 (Leinster quarter-final)
• Dublin 0-14 Kildare 0-12 (Leinster semi-final)
• Dublin 5-21 Louth 0-15 (Leinster final)
• Dublin 1-11 Roscommon 0-14 (All-Ireland Group 3)
• Dublin 0-22 Kildare 0-13 (All-Ireland Group 3)
• Dublin 3-23 Sligo 0-8 (All-Ireland Group 3)
• Dublin 2-17 Mayo 0-11 (All-Ireland quarter-final)
• Dublin 1-17 Monaghan 0-13 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• Played 8, Won 7, Drew 1
Top Scorers
1. Con O’Callaghan…..2-28 (0-4 frees, 0-3 marks)
2. Colm Basquel………. 5-16 (0-1 free)
3. Cormac Costello……..0-25 (0-12 frees, 0-2 ‘45s’, 0-1 mark)
4. Paul Mannion…………1-16 (0-3 frees, 0-1 mark))
5. Sean Bugler…………..1-12
6. Ciaran Kilkenny……..1-11
7. Dean Rock……………..1-10 (0-4 frees)

KERRY
• Kerry 0-25 Tipperary 0-5 (Munster quarter-final)
• Kerry 5-14 Clare 0-15 (Munster final)
• Mayo 1-19 Kerry 0-17 (All-Ireland Group 1)
• Kerry 1-14 Cork 0-15 (All-Ireland Group 1)
• Kerry 5-24 Louth 0-11 (All-Ireland Group 1)
• Kerry 2-18 Tyrone 0-12 (All-Ireland quarter-final)
• Kerry 1-17 Derry 1-15 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• Played 7, Won 6, Lost 1
Top Scorers
1. David Clifford……5-39 (0-17 frees, 2-0 pen, 0-3 mark)
2. Sean O’Shea……..2-34 (0-14, frees, 0-4 ‘45s’, 0-1 mark)
3. Paudie Clifford…….2-7
4. Tony Brosnan……1-9 (0-1 mark)
5. Tom O’Sullivan……0-9
6. Dara Moynihan…….1-5
7. Paul Geaney……….0-7 (0-2 mark)

DUBLIN v KERRY: CHAMPIONSHIP HISTORY

• 2022: Kerry 1-14 Dublin 1-13 (All-Ireland semi-final
• 2019: Dublin 1-18 Kerry 0-15 (All-Ireland final replay)
• 2019: Dublin 1-16 Kerry 1-16 (All-Ireland final)
• 2016: Dublin 0-22 Kerry 2-14 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 2015: Dublin 0-12 Kerry 0-9 (All-Ireland final)
• 2013: Dublin 3-18 Kerry 3-11 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 2011: Dublin 1-12 Kerry 1-11 (All-Ireland final)

• 2009: Kerry 1-24 Dublin 1-7 (All-Ireland quarter-final)
• 2007: Kerry 1-15 Dublin 0-16 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 2004: Kerry 1-15 Dublin 1-8 (All-Ireland quarter-final)
• 2001: Kerry 2-12 Dublin 1-12 (All-Ireland quarter-final replay)
• 2001: Kerry 1-14 Dublin 2-11 (All-Ireland quarter-final)
• 1985: Kerry 2-12 Dublin 2-8 (All-Ireland final)
• 1984: Kerry 0-14 Dublin 1-6 (All-Ireland final)
• 1979: Kerry 3-13 Dublin 1-8 (All-Ireland final)
• 1978: Kerry 5-11 Dublin 0-9 (All-Ireland final)
• 1977: Dublin 3-12 Kerry 1-13 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 1976: Dublin 3-8 Kerry 0-10 (All-Ireland final)
• 1975: Kerry 2-12 Dublin 0-11 (All-Ireland final)
• 1965: Kerry 4-8 Dublin 2-6 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 1962: Kerry 2-12 Dublin 0-10 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 1959: Kerry 1-10 Dublin 2-5 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 1955: Kerry 0-12 Dublin 1-6 (All-Ireland final)
• 1941: Kerry 2-9 Dublin 0-3 (All-Ireland semi-final replay)
• 1941: Kerry 0-4 Dublin 0-4 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 1934: Dublin 3-8 Kerry 0-6 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 1932: Kerry 1-3 Dublin 1-1 (All-Ireland semi-final)
• 1924: Kerry 0-4 Dublin 0-3 (All-Ireland final)
• 1923: Dublin 1-5 Kerry 1-3 (All-Ireland final)
• 1908: Dublin 0-10 Kerry 0-3 (All-Ireland final)
• 1904: Kerry 0-5 Dublin 0-2 (All-Ireland final)
• 1892 Dublin 1-4 Kerry 0-3 (All-Ireland final)

 

DUBLIN v KERRY ALL-IRELAND FINALS

They have met in 16 All-Ireland finals with wins 8-7 in Kerry’s favour and one draw.
• 2019: Dublin 1-18 Kerry 0-15 (Replay)
• 2019: Dublin 1-16 Kerry 1-16 (Draw)
• 2015: Dublin 0-12 Kerry 0-9
• 2011: Dublin 1-12 Kerry 1-11
• 1985: Kerry 2-12 Dublin 2-8
• 1984: Kerry 0-14 Dublin 1-6
• 1979: Kerry 3-13 Dublin 1-8
• 1978: Kerry 5-11 Dublin 0-9
• 1976: Dublin 3-8 Kerry 0-10
• 1975: Kerry 2-12 Dublin 0-11
• 1955: Kerry 0-12 Dublin 1-6
• 1924: Kerry 0-4 Dublin 0-3
• 1923: Dublin 1-5 Kerry 1-3
• 1908: Dublin 0-10 Kerry 0-3
• 1904: Kerry 0-5 Dublin 0-2
• 1892 Dublin 1-4 Kerry 0-3

Ireland’s Fred Scala and Corriebeg Supernova Take Hickstead Win

Fred Scala won today's Ashby Underwriting Eventers' Challenge (c) Elli Birch.

Ireland’s Fred Scala and Corriebeg Supernova won Thursday’s Ashby Underwriting Eventers’ Challenge at Hickstead.

It was the first time the 34-year-old from Co Carlow has competed in the class at the Longines Royal International Horse Show.

Though the Derbyshire-based Irish rider incurred a 4 second penalty for knocking the second part of the Devil’s Dyke, he crossed the line in a time of 128.84 seconds to go into the lead.

For a moment it looked like defending champions Gemma Stevens and Flash Cooley, last to go, might knock Scala off top spot, but when she also picked up a 4 second time penalty at the final fence, her time of 129.59 seconds relegated her to second place.

Stevens also produced the fastest round of the day on her other horse Santiago Bay, but with two fences down they finished on a total time of 130.52 seconds.

Hewick Bids For Tote Galway Plate Repeat

Last year’s Galway Plate winner Hewick, Final Orders and Kilcruit are some of the leading names that remain in contention for next week’s Tote Galway Plate at the Galway Festival. The John ‘Shark’ Hanlon-trained Hewick claimed a famous victory in the race 12 months ago for owner TJ McDonald and will next Wednesday attempt back-to-back wins in the highlight of race week at Galway.

Brian Hughes is booked to ride Hewick, who is among the 34 horses going forward for summer’s chasing highlight.

The Gavin Cromwell-trained Final Orders and Barry Connell-handled Enniskerry stand their ground, while Kilcruit and 2021 Galway Plate runner-up Easy Game are two of five entries for champion jumps trainer Willie Mullins. Gordon Elliott has 11 in the race with Fury Road and Ash Tree Meadow, fourth in the race a year ago, among them.

Lifetime Ambition could represent Jessica Harrington, with Gabbys Cross and Foxy Jacks possible runners for Henry de Bromhead and Mouse Morris respectively. 

The Galway Races get underway at Ballybit on Monday next.

Former Galway Utd star Alex Murphy makes Newcastle United debut

Former Galway Utd star Alex Murphy has made his Newcastle United debut against Chelsea in preseason friendly.

Meet Alex Murphy, a talented 19-year-old football player who has recently made his debut for Newcastle United in a preseason friendly match against Chelsea. Let’s dive into his background and journey to the big stage.

Early Life and Youth Career

Born in Annaghdown, located in the picturesque west of Ireland, Alex Murphy’s passion for football ignited at a young age. At 14, he joined Galway United’s Academy, where his remarkable skills on the field started to shine through. As he honed his abilities, it became evident that he was destined for great things.

Emergence in Galway United

Murphy’s hard work and dedication paid off when, at the tender age of 16, he made his debut for Galway United’s first team in 2021. Impressively, he showcased versatility by excelling in both left back and center back positions, proving himself as a valuable asset to the team.

Representing the National Team

Not only did Murphy excel at the club level, but he also had the honor of captaining the Republic of Ireland’s under-18 side. His exceptional performance caught the eye of the national selectors, leading to a call-up for his country’s under-19 team during the UEFA U19 European Championship Elite Phase qualifiers in March.

Stepping into Newcastle United Academy

Recognizing his immense potential, Newcastle United saw the opportunity to add Murphy to their ranks. Last October, he made the move to the prestigious Newcastle academy, setting the stage for his journey to the next level of professional football.

Conclusion

With an inspiring journey from Galway United’s Academy to the notable debut for Newcastle United, Alex Murphy’s career is on a promising trajectory. Football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate witnessing his continued growth and success on the field as he embraces new challenges and opportunities in the world of football.

Cricket – Ireland Men Clinch 2024 ICC T20 World Cup Qualification

Ireland Men Clinch 2024 ICC T20 World Cup Qualification Despite Rain-Interruption

In a thrilling journey through the qualifying tournament, Ireland Men’s cricket team has triumphed, securing their place in the highly anticipated 2024 ICC T20 World Cup. Despite the rain-abandoned match against Germany, Ireland’s stellar performances in the earlier encounters paved the way for their qualification. Let’s delve into the details of their remarkable journey and the captain’s perspective on their upcoming challenges.

Sealing the Spot with Impressive Victories

Ireland Men showcased their mettle on the cricket field, delivering stellar performances in the qualifying tournament. Their journey started with a bang as they secured victory in four consecutive matches. Notable wins against Italy, Denmark, Austria, and Jersey not only displayed their prowess but also placed them on the brink of qualification with just one more point needed.

Frustration and Ecstasy: Rain Plays a Party

As the crucial match against Germany commenced, hopes were high for another dominant performance. However, nature had other plans, as persistent rain forced the game to be abandoned without a single ball being bowled. While the situation proved frustrating for both teams, Ireland’s hard-earned points from the earlier wins proved decisive in their qualification bid.

Looking Ahead to Scotland Showdown

Despite qualification being assured, Ireland Men are not resting on their laurels. They have one more match to play in the qualifying tournament, and it promises to be a gripping encounter. Facing the hosts, Scotland, in the pivotal match at Grange Cricket Club tomorrow, all eyes will be on the showdown between the two talented teams to determine the ultimate tournament winner.

Captain’s Delight and Focus

Paul Stirling, the esteemed captain of Ireland Men, shared his thoughts on the team’s qualification. He expressed delight in achieving their primary objective of securing a spot in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup. Stirling acknowledged the team’s clear plan and style of play that they executed diligently during the tournament.

While celebrating the qualification, Stirling emphasized that their focus remains unwavering. The final match against Scotland is not just about the trophy but also about maintaining their winning momentum. The team is determined to carry this spirit into the upcoming India T20 series next month, proving their mettle against some of the world’s best teams.

Conclusion

The Ireland Men’s cricket team’s journey to the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup has been nothing short of impressive. Their unwavering determination and exceptional performances have earned them the coveted qualification. While the rain-induced abandonment of the match against Germany added an unexpected twist, Ireland’s earlier victories sealed their spot in the prestigious tournament. As they prepare to face Scotland in the final match, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates another display of cricketing brilliance. Ireland Men stand ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead, determined to make their mark on the global stage in the upcoming T20 World Cup and beyond.

Cyclist Conor Murphy Wins Silver at European Youth Olympics

Conor Murphy celebrates with his silver medal after finishing second in the boys' time trial final during day two of the 2023 Summer European Youth Olympic Festival at Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport in Maribor, Slovenia. Photo by Tyler Miller/Sportsfile, provided by Olympic Federation of Ireland.

Cyclist Conor Murphy claimed Ireland’s first medal at the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) in Maribor.

The Clogher rider was second in the Boy’s Time Trial, becoming the first male to win a cycling medal for Team Ireland at the EYOF.

The 16-year-old finished the 10km race in a time of 12:55.38, with only the Dutch rider, Gijs Schoonvelde, going faster. Co

Afterwards, the surprised and proud Cúchulainn CC rider spoke about his race, admitting:

“It feels amazing, I can’t really believe it to be honest. The course was pan-flat and a case of just going as hard as you could. I really wasn’t expecting it, I was hoping top 25-ish, and I just came over the line and I couldn’t believe what the man on the mic was saying.”

Coached by international racer Bryan McCrystal, Murphy normally competes on the mountain bike, and came into the event not knowing what to expect.

“Byran’s been great to me giving me advice for the Time Trial,” the silver medallist said. “I can’t thank him enough has really helped me, he even lent me his bike for the race. I think everyone will be pretty proud in Louth now. I’m in disbelief now but I think I will believe it when I get it in my hands and see it hanging on the wall at home. It’s a nice way to start the week, we will just give it a go on the mountain bike tomorrow.”

The only other cyclist to have won a medal for Team Ireland at the EYOF is Lara Gillespie, who won a silver medal in the Girl’s Time Trial in Gyor 2017.

David Gaffney and Philip O’Connor were also competing in the same race, finishing 18th and 43rd respectively.

The Girl’s Time Trial saw Killarney’s Kate Murphy finish in 27th position, ahead of Greta Lawless in 40th place.

Ireland Team for European Athletics U20 Championship

18 July 2021; Gold medalist Nicholas Griggs of Ireland with his medal during the victory ceremony for the men's 3000m during day four of the European Athletics U20 Championships at the Kadriorg Stadium in Tallinn, Estonia. Photo by Marko Mumm/Sportsfile, provided by Athletics Ireland.

Athletics Ireland has selected a team of 32 athletes to compete at the 2023 European U20 Championships in Jerusalem, Israel, from the 7th to 10th August 2023.

The selections include 18 individual competitors along with men’s 4x100m and men’s and women’s 4x400m squads.

The squad includes Nick Griggs, reigning European U20 Champion over 3000m, who is selected in both 1500m and 3000m.

Elizabeth Ndudi goes into the championships as Ireland’s top ranked female athlete having recently bettered her own U20 Long Jump record with a 6.44 leap in Mannheim.

Name

Club

Coach

Event(s)

Anna Gavigan

Lambay Sports & Athletics

Enda Gavigan

Discus

Ava Rochford

Nenagh Olympic AC

Martin O’Grady

High Jump

Avril Millerick

Youghal AC

Noel Curtin

5000m

Elizabeth Ndudi

DSD AC

Julien Guilard

Long Jump

Louise O’Mahony

BMOH AC

Donnacha O’Mahony

5000m

Lucy-May Sleeman

Leevale AC

John Corr

100m, 200m

Maeve O’Neill

Doheny AC

Tony O’Neill

800m

Niamh Murray

Bray Runners

Aine Murray & Joe Ryan

400m, 4x400m

Victoria Amiadamen

Dooneen AC

PJ O’Rourke

400mh, 4x400m

Kate O’Connell

Lucan Harriers

Jeremy Lyons

4x400m

Hannah Murray

Finn Valley

Rosemary Finn

4x400m

Renee Crotty

Annalee AC

Damian Lalor

4x400m

Eve Noctor

Lucan Harriers

Niamh Fitzgerald

4x400m

Daisy Walker

Monaghan Phoenix

Brian Peppard & Damien Barry

4x400m Non-travelling Reserve

Adam Nolan

SLOT AC

Billy Delaney

110mh

Fintan Dewhirst

Tir Chonaill AC

Brian McGonagle

400mh

Jack Fenlon

St. Abban’s AC

Eamonn Kelly

3000m

Jonas Stafford

Ashford AC

Feidhlim Kelly

5000m

Lughaidh Mallon

Lagan Valley

Jim McKeown

1500m

Neil Culhane

Ace AC

Liam Cooney

800m

Niall Murphy

Ennis Track Club

Pat Hogan

3000m

Nick Griggs

Candour Track Club

Mark Kirk

1500m, 3000m

Oisín Joyce

Lake District AC

Padraic Joyce

Javelin

Seán Aigboboh

Tallaght AC

Daniel Kilgallon

4x100m

Nkemjika Onwumereh

Metro St. Brigid’s AC

Daniel Kilgallon

4x100m

Dannan Long

Enniscorthy AC

Chris St.-Claire Johnson

4x100m

Darragh Murphy

Limerick AC

Gwynne Ryan

4x100m

Max O’Reilly

Kinsale AC

Dave Keating

4x100m

Killian Curran

Blackrock AC

Mark Cafferky

4x100m Non-travelling Reserve

David Bosch

DSD AC

Ruaidhrí Kedney

4x400m

Joe Doody

Cabinteely AC

Brian Doody

4x400m

David Mannion

South Galway AC

Jim Phelan

4x400m

Stephen Mannion

South Galway AC

Jim Phelan

4x400m

Daragh Masterson

Ratoath AC

Peter Doherty

4x400m

Seán Doggett

Athenry AC

Stephen Doggett & Iain Shaw

4x400m Non-travelling Reserve

Ten things to know about Galway Races 2023

Galway Races Summer Festival: Ireland’s Largest Horse Racing Extravaganza

Get ready for an exhilarating experience as the highly anticipated Galway Races Summer Festival is just around the corner. From Monday 31st July to Sunday 6th August, this seven-day event will captivate horse racing enthusiasts from near and far. With a whopping prize fund exceeding €2.1 million, the Galway Races Summer Festival promises a thrilling display of top-class racing, entertainment, and fashion. Let’s dive into the exciting details of this iconic event.

Unmatched Prize Money and Race Lineup:

With fifty-three races spread across the festival, the Galway Races Summer Festival offers an impressive prize fund of over €2.1 million. Each day features a feature race with a minimum prize fund of €100,000, ensuring high-stakes excitement for both participants and spectators. From national hunt to flat races, Galway Racecourse caters to all racing preferences, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience throughout the seven days.

Ladies Day: A Fashion Extravaganza:

Thursday at the Galway Races is the renowned Ladies Day, where fashion enthusiasts get to showcase their style. This year, the event features a new guest judge, Rachel Gorry, a popular social media influencer. The “Best Dressed Lady” and “Best Hat” competitions offer a generous cash prize sponsored by The Connacht Hospitality Group. With esteemed judges like Mandy Maher and Kieran O’Malley, this day promises to be a captivating showcase of fashion and glamour.

Fridays most stylish 

On the fifth day of the festival, Friday’s Most Stylish, sponsored by Athlone Towncentre, gathers race-going fashion lovers for a spectacular event. This year marks the eleventh year of Athlone Towncentre’s sponsorship, and participants can anticipate a remarkable competition and a superb prize. Stay tuned for more details to be released soon!

Let’s Be Having You Galway: A Captivating Podcast Series:

For the first time in an Irish racecourse, the Galway Races presents a six-episode podcast series, offering a unique glimpse into the world of horse racing. Hosted by Paul Collins, this captivating series features interviews with racing legends, including Davy and Edelle Russell, Gordon Elliott, Noel Meade, and more. These insightful conversations unveil untold stories and personal experiences, captivating both avid fans and newcomers to the sport.

The Kiss-Cam: Spreading Joy and Laughter:

Adding a touch of American sports tradition to the festival, the Galway Races introduces the ‘Kiss-Cam’ initiative. This light-hearted feature promises entertainment and smiles throughout the seven days. With content creator Alan Clarke at the helm, the ‘Kiss-Cam’ captures heartwarming moments, creating lasting memories for attendees.

Live Music Extravaganza:

Prepare to be serenaded by an outstanding lineup of live music performances throughout the festival. With over fifty acts scheduled, Galway Racecourse offers a diverse range of musical genres to enhance the overall experience. From the energetic sounds of Spring Break and Bongo.

Family Fun at the Mad Hatters Day:

Sunday at the Galway Races is dedicated to family entertainment, with the popular “Mad Hatters Day” taking center stage. Supported by Ireland West Airport, this day features colorful “Mad Hatter” competitions for both children and adults, with fantastic prizes up for grabs. New additions for families include a dedicated family-friendly entrance, complimentary Galway Races back-bags for children, a family portrait area, and over twenty free activities to keep everyone entertained.

Ticket Sales and Hospitality:

The Galway Races not only delivers an exhilarating experience but also contributes significantly to the local economy, with over €54 million being generated. Advance ticket sales for the 2023 festival have surpassed previous years, indicating the immense popularity of the event. To celebrate this year’s festival, Galway Races offers a special discount of €5 off each general admission ticket purchased in advance.

Extensive Television Coverage:

For those unable to attend the Galway Races in person, comprehensive television coverage ensures they don’t miss out on the excitement. RTÉ Television broadcasts the first four thrilling days of the event, featuring live commentary, insights, and the feature race of each day. TG4, the Irish language broadcaster, takes over on Friday and Saturday, showcasing sixteen action-packed races, including prestigious events like The Guinness Handicap and The BoyleSports Handicap Hurdle. Racing TV covers and broadcasts all fifty-two races live from the track, catering to fans who don’t want to miss a moment of the thrilling races.

Tote’s Sponsorship of the Stable Staff Canteen:

Tote, the title sponsor of Wednesday’s race card on 2nd August, extends its support throughout the entire week by sponsoring the stable staff canteen during the Galway Races Summer Festival. This partnership recognizes the vital role played by the hardworking stable staff and adds to the overall experience for both participants and spectators.

Irish Horses to Watch at Glorious Goodwood 2023

Glorious Goodwood is one of the world’s leading flat race meetings and the festival will take place between the 1st and 5th of August 2023.

There are plenty of races to be excited about, including the King George Stakes, Nassau Stakes, Sussex Stakes, and Goodwood Cup. Before we take a closer look at some of the leading Irish contenders in 2023, we must get to know the racetrack a little better.

Goodwood Racecourse

The Goodwood Racecourse is in Chichester, West Sussex and in known as a right-handed track. However, for races over 2 miles in length, the runners will also take a left-handed turn early in the race.

The flat course provides the riders with tremendous views of the South Downs and the two main right-handed turns can be found one mile from the start line and on the final bend. The home straight may look like the easiest part of the track from the stands, but many runners have got into trouble on the straight at Goodwood, leading to some dramatic finishes.

Soul Sister

Now we come to the first of our Irish horses to watch at the 2023 Glorious Goodwood festival. Soul Sister is expected to compete in the Nassau Stakes and will be up against the favourite, Blue Rose Cen. Soul Sister arrives at Goodwood on the back of a third-place finish in the Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris at Longchamp in July.

She did well under pressure in the final stages but did not have the pace to challenge the winner. However, good wins in the Musidora Stakes and the Epsom Oaks makes Soul Sister one to watch at Goodwood this year.

Coltrane

Coltrane has enjoyed a fantastic year and has quickly become one of the leading contenders in Group 1 races. Having won the Coral Marathon at Sandown last season, Coltrane went on to win the Group 2 Doncaster Cup and finished second in the British Champions Long Distance Cup. Coltrane ran in the 2022 Goodwood Cup and finish fourth but all three of the horses who finished ahead of Coltrane will not be racing this year.

He finished second in the 2023 Ascot Gold Cup and dropping back down to 2 miles will suit Coltrane as he aims to give the crowd something to cheer about on the opening day of the festival.

Orazio

The Stewards’ Cup, which will take place on the final day of Glorious Goodwood, looks to be an open race, and includes Irish contender, Orazio. Trained by Charles Hills, the colt started the season full of promise and came out on top in the Weatherbys Digital Solutions Handicap at Newmarket, moving away from the rest of the field in the closing stages of the race.

Moving to Ascot and Orazio looked very comfortable when winning the Peroni Nastro Azzurro “Live Every Moment” Handicap, moving clear of the field to win by over two lengths. Orazio will be challenged by Saint Lawrence, another Irish horse to watch, who finished first in the Wokingham Stakes at Ascot, a race in which Oraziofinished sixth.

These are just some of the Irish horses to watch at Glorious Goodwood and there are sure to be many others who will be confident of tasing success throughout the week.