Stephen Connolly

IN THE world of flat racing, the month of May traditionally heralds the beginning of the season’s Classic races, a collection of Group 1 events seen as the most prestigious in the calendar.

THE 2026 Grand National took place at Aintree on Saturday April 11 and it was a record breaking—or at least equalling—day for the winning horse and connections.

THE Dublin Racing Festival, that was due to take place at Leopardstown on January 31 and February 1, nearly didn’t happen this year due to over six inches of rain falling on the course in the week leading up. Photos prior showed much of the track completely flooded, which had racegoers and punters anxious to know if the meeting would go ahead or not. Eventually it was decided to hold over Saturday’s fixtures to the Monday (St Brigid’s Day) with Sunday thankfully able to go ahead as planned.