The lowdown on Galway Greyhound Stadium

From the satisfaction of seeing Trap 5 romp home spurred on by your fiver, to high-class dining, there's something for everyone at Galway Greyhound Stadium.

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Galway greyhound racing. So what’s the craic?

 

Right, so you’ve asked the question. I’ll try to answer it. Galway Greyhound Stadium has undergone a €6m refurbishment in recent years, so if it’s been a while since you’ve gone, or you’re thinking of heading along for the first time, you’re in for a treat. Racing takes place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night, with the first race off at 7pm each evening.

Does it need a taxi spin or bus journey?

Well, you can travel by any means you please, but it’s pretty central so it’s well within walking distance – it’s just five minutes’ walk from Eyre Square in fact. If you’re into the rugby, you’ll probably be familiar with the venue in any case, as Connacht play their home matches there. Toulouse were one of the visitors for the first ever Heineken Cup game to take place their earlier this season. And “Toulouse” is what people who go greyhound racing try their best not to do! Tee-he-he...

What?

Never mind. Anyway, the racing is always excellent, but apart from the satisfaction of intently studying the form, deciding that Juicy’s Torres in Trap 5 is the one to beat and watching him streak home at odds of 7/2, there’s plenty to keep you entertained elsewhere.

For starters, the bars and restaurants are sure to suit every taste – there’s an extensive range of hot and cold buffet menus and a large selection of sandwiches, snacks, teas and coffees. Various restaurants have everything you could need for something more substantial, and if you’ve the food sorted but you’re just a bit thirsty, there are bars everywhere you turn so you’ll never have an excuse not to slake a thirst.

I’m thinking of bringing someone special to be honest, so killing two birds with one stone is always good. Is there a really classy restaurant we could sit in so I can hold hands with herself while sneaking a few glances over my shoulder at the racing?

Certainly is. Masters Restaurant is a fine spot. Sample menu includes such delicacies as a starter of Tian of Galway Bay Salmon bound with Red Onion and Fresh Herbs and served with a Lemon Aioli, and a main course of Lemon and Honey Basted Half Honey Roast Duck Coated with Gran Marnier Jus. And if you’re really trying to impress, nothing gives off an air of sophistication like having a selection of cheese for dessert.

Sounds lavish, so that should be right up her street. What about after the grub and after the racing? Much happening then?

This is Galway, lad! Of course there is. For starters, the night’s still young after the last race is run, as live music and entertainment continues at the Greyhound Stadium until 12.30am. And at that point, don’t forget that you’re still just five minutes’ walk away from the city centre, with the unique nightlife of Eyre Square, Shop Street, the Latin Quarter and Spanish Arch all within easy reach to finish off your night in style.

For more information on everything happening at Galway Greyhound Stadium, check out www.igb.ie.