A cracking week in store on both sides of the Irish Sea, with Glorious Goodwood over here and The Galway Races 2026 all week on The Emerald Isle.
The Galway Races 2026: Cathryn Fry’s Day 1 Preview
At the time of writing, the going is good on the national hunt course and good to yielding on the flat. A contest for four year olds, this looks a strong field for the traditional opener. Willie Mullins has an outstanding recent record in this contest, having landed two of the last three runnings with half-brothers Mystical Power and Davy Crockett, and he looks to hold another strong hand with the unbeaten filly Witches Familiar.
Galway Races 2026: Carmel’s Phoenix (5:10)
She could hardly have been more impressive when making a winning debut over hurdles at Ballinrobe, and that performance suggests she has the scope to progress beyond Mino Des Mottes, who arrives on the back of a convincing Bellewstown success and a rating of 123.
Carmel’s Phoenix (5.10) also commands plenty of respect after producing a dominant display at Kilbeggan. She couldn’t have been more impresive that day, winning by twenty-five lengths against her own sex. She faces a stiffer assignment here, but the daughter of Phoenix Of Spain has shown enough ability to suggest she is a mare with a bright future. Tongue tie is worn for the first time. At the prices, I would be siding with Carmel’s Phoenix.
Galway Races 2026: Too Bossy for Us (6:40)
Lark In The Morning heads the list of dangers after returning to winning ways at Bellewstown. Joseph O’Brien’s charge is no stranger to big field handicaps, while the 2024 Cheltenham Festival winner also benefits from Daire Davis’ valuable 7lb claim, making him a major player once again.
Another to consider is Eagle Fang, who rarely disappoints and has built up a reputation for consistency. Representing the Durkan stable, he is partnered by leading amateur Johnny Barry and has the credentials to make his presence felt in another fiercely contested renewal. Eagle Fang is tough and consistent. He won’t mind a scrap around Ballybrit. Often overpriced, the current 8/1 looks a decent bet.
This always is, one of the toughest handicaps on the card, and, we can’t discount: Too Bossy For Us (6.40) for Willie Mullins. Owned by the HOS Syndicate, the gelding brings strong Flat form from both Britain and Ireland and shaped with plenty of encouragement when staying on into sixth at the Curragh last time. With Jody Townend taking the ride and a favourable draw to work from, he looks primed for this. The ground, as it is, will suit. If any rain were to fall, Plontier would come into the reckoning, at a price.
By Cathryn Fry
Please note that the information provided in this The Galway Races 2026 article is for entertainment purposes only. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. Any action you take upon the information on this article is strictly at your own risk, and we will not be liable for any losses and damages in connection with the use of our article. We do not encourage gambling and remind you to gamble responsibly.
18+ | BeGambleAware.org
