The fickle August weather has allowed a window for the return of Connemara’s coastal races off Omey island this weekend.
The meet with nine races will take place from 1pm this Saturday, August 24th, on the strand separating Omey from Claddaghduff.
The new date was set after strong winds and heavy rainfall had been forecast for the original date of August 4th.
The forecast for this Saturday is for westerly winds, and the organisers are confident conditions will prove suitable.
Last held in 2019, the Omey races were postponed for several years due to Covid-19 and then due to insurance factors.
The event was originally known as a farmers’ meet for working horses, with currach races, sports, a bicycle race - and even a car race one year.
It was suspended in 1963, but revived by Mulkerrin and a voluntary committee in 2001.
The meet now attracts thoroughbreds from all over the country, and many professional jockeys cut their teeth at Omey, while many Irish people living abroad with Omey connections return for the family occasion.