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Welcome to the official website for the town of Louisburgh. The Carrowniskey Races

The Carrowniskey Races committee are pleased to confirm the date for this years races to take place on Sunday July 7th 2019

Beach racing with horses first became a popular form of entertainment in the last century with the early races in this area taking place on Carrowmore Beach, just outside the village of Louisburgh. These races then moved further along the coast to the beach at Cross near Killeen and then to the beach at Carrowniskey.  The last of the races took place in 1982 and were held at nearby Killadoon Beach.


The racing program in those times was The Parish Race,Two Open Races, Farmer’s Plate and then a Handicapped Race.


There was also a Donkey Derby as well as some sports events that included a Sack Race, a Three Legged Race, a Tug-of-War and of course the compulsory Egg and Spoon Race.


The original races always took place on a Wednesday, as this was a half-day closing in the nearby town of Westport and therefore a better crowd following was ensured.


Funding for these races was provided from local house to house collections.


The races were revived after a 28 year absence in 2010.


Now the strand caters for ten to twelve races. The majority of the races are filled with thoroughbreds under the auspices of the MHPRA along with some local races. These local ponies and non-thoroughbreds add some friendly competition to the day.


An entertaining day is to be had for all ages. Children are catered for with a variety of entertainment; whilst adults can place a bet, have a beverage and a bite while watching the races.


The Carrowniskey Races would like to extend their thanks to all their sponsors for their generosity in previous years and the up and coming 2018 Carrowniskey Races taking place on the 17th of June.

Please visit our website at www.carrowniskeyraces.ie

  Louisburgh. Cluain Cearbán - Meadow of Buttercups