Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Dublin Racing Festival Set for 8am Inspection Amid Rain

1/31/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Leopardstown's Dublin Racing Festival will proceed pending an 8am inspection on Saturday.
Overnight rainfall of 22mm brings the 14-day total to 193mm, leaving portions of the hurdle track unfit.
Paddy Graffin, clerk of the course at Leopardstown Racecourse, said a new racing line is raceable.
If the event is canceled, it will be rescheduled for Monday, February 2.
The festival is expected to attract up to 35,000 attendees.

History

Historical Context

The Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown, established in 1888, faced significant weather challenges in 2020, with 22mm of rain affecting track conditions. The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board oversees such events, which attract large crowds; the festival anticipated 35,000 attendees. Historical weather disruptions have consistently impacted outdoor sports, underscoring the need for effective weather preparedness in event planning.

1 of 2

Story summary

Leopardstown's Dublin Racing Festival will proceed pending an 8am inspection on Saturday.
Overnight rainfall of 22mm brings the 14-day total to 193mm, leaving portions of the hurdle track unfit.
Paddy Graffin, clerk of the course at Leopardstown Racecourse, said a new racing line is raceable.
If the event is canceled, it will be rescheduled for Monday, February 2.
The festival is expected to attract up to 35,000 attendees.

1 / 2