And they're off - -or a day at The Curragh

Sunday, 27-Sep
Today we headed out to The Curragh. It was about an hour bus ride from Dublin, back toward Kildare (home of the Irish National Stud). Today was Ireland's richest day of racing, with the Goff's Millions, and the Million Sprint, as well as 5 other group races like the Boodles Diamond Cup, etc. I bought a Racing Times for the bus ride and away we went.

It was overcast, but luckily not raining! As we arrived, the car park was filling up. Ladies in the most extraordinary outfits and hats were everywhere. Keep in mind - this is the home of the Irish Classic races, and playground for Sheikh Mahktum, and all that sort. Brown Thomas (their version sort of, of Neiman Marcus) sponsored the most stylish lady competition - and it was fierce.

But of course I came for the horses. As I practically sprinted over to the saddling enclosure, I was practically salivating. Lovely beautiful groomed to within an inch of their life horses! The first race was 30 horses going 6 furlings (3/4 mile). One the bus ride I had selected Irish Heartbeat, and now I was determined to go experience the bookmaker's stalls.

I wandered a bit, and finally made my choice. I talked to the man for a few minutes and finally settled for a 2 Euro wager. My horse ran 2nd and I cashed and was thrilled! They run strictly on grass here - Lynn was enchanted with the divot replacing crew. So exciting!

I also cashed on the 2nd race I selected, then decided it was time to go to the gift shop, and get a bite to eat and people watch! What a great day! The feature race had the top 4 finishers seperated by less than a horse length. There was a prize each race for best turned out horse (EVERYone who grooms should take note of this...!) All in all - a great great day.

The traffic jam getting out of the parking lot was not so great - 45 minutes just to get out. But finally made it home and trying to decide what to do with our last day in Dublin!