Summary: Horse Racing
Key dates:
Ireland had a long tradition of horse-racing. In Ulster wealthy people travelled to both Downpatrick and the Maze for race meetings. Laytown, Co. Meath, was another very popular venue. Racing on the sands at Laytown began in 1876 and drew large crowds. Marquees were erected on the beach and there was a carnival atmosphere when the races were held on summer evenings. When the tide was out, the course was marked out with poles and flags.
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