Galway Races 2025: Meet the Clare-based man whose stunning floral wall has everyone talking
Punters attending the Galway Races throughout the week will have the opportunity to take a rest from the heels or snap some pics in front of a beautiful flower wall installation.
Designed by Clare-based Madeiran man Luis Da Silva, the floral area will include a picturesque lilac bench with the actual flower wall installation aiming to showcase a specially commissioned Jack Daly illustration.
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Irish Independent
2 days ago
- Irish Independent
Local hairdresser wins style stakes at Tramore Races in pair of famous Manolo Blahniks
Local woman Louisa Murphy caught the eye of the fashion scouts early in the evening with style judge Niamh de Brún commenting, 'it was a tough decision but for me, she was always the one to beat'. Louisa wore a stunning two piece from the sustainable fashion label Farm Rio, paired with a Millinery by Mel hat, Manolo Blahnik heels, earrings by Rosie and Dot and a bag she purchased from a beach trader in Duncannon, County Wexford, just two weeks ago. Her heels were the talk of the festival having gained her headlines for quite a different reason on their previous outing. Speaking after her win, Louisa said: 'I'm wearing the famous Manolos. You see, one of these heels got caught in a grate recently at the Galway Races, where I attended with friends for a day out, and needless to say the cameras were quick to catch the moment. 'It was just so funny, and I didn't think any more about it until later when it aired on TV, and the next day I was in all the papers, it was mighty craic and I suppose you could say they've brought me luck.' She added: 'I've been dressing up for ladies day for the last eight years here at Tramore Races and I've never been picked even as a finalist, so to be picked out and to actually win is really a dream come true, I'm delighted.' A popular winner, Louisa is a hairdresser from Tramore, who owns two salons in the town and one in Wexford. Her husband John Flavin is a local racehorse trainer and that morning they had more than 100 guests visit their racing yard for an open morning. Louisa recalled: 'Just this morning I was cooking breakfast and making sausage blaas for our guests to enjoy after their tour with John around the yard to see all the horses and now this, it's been a really great day.' Her prize, sponsored by Waterford Castle Resort and Walsh Group Hotels, includes a two-night stay at Waterford Castle, complete with breakfast and dinner and €500 in cash. Not to be forgotten were the runners-up, Roisin Logan, and husband and wife duo Gillian Kelleher and Raymon Gilbourne, who won afternoon tea and golf for two at Waterford Castle also. The final day of the four-day August festival at Tramore took place on Sunday, August 17.
The Irish Sun
12-08-2025
- The Irish Sun
JP McManus & wife Noreen suffer tragic misfortune as sibling race horses die within days of one another
Earlier this week JP made a lovely gesture to his local GAA club SAD TIME JP McManus & wife Noreen suffer tragic misfortune as sibling race horses die within days of one another JP AND Noreen McManus have had to endure the death of another of their horses within the space of two weeks. Magnolia Drive sadly went wrong after falling at the first on Monday at Ballinrobe, county Mayo. Advertisement 2 JP McManus had previously seen Magnolia Drive's brother die at the Galway Races Credit: PA 2 Wife Noreen is a highly successful breeder in the horse racing game Credit: Sportsfile The terrible scene unfolded in the C.J. Sheeran Ltd Maiden Hurdle which was the opening race on the day's card at the packed venue. Noreen had bred the three-year-old filly who was trained by Joseph O'Brien. Tragically, that was her first outing over hurdles after showing significant potential while last month claiming a flat victory in Killarney. Jockey Simon Torrens was at least unharmed after they both went crashing to the ground in the heavy fall. Advertisement It comes as in quick succession to the death of Common Practice at the Galway Races. What's more, the latter was the Magnolia Drive's full brother. He was euthanised after tripping over the fourth-last hurdle during the Galway Plate. Similarly trained by O'Brien, the six-year-old had generated over €120,000 in prize money which included five wins. On a more upbeat note, the Limerick billionaire made a heartfelt gesture to his local GAA club earlier this week. The 74-year-old gifted Grand national-winning silks to South Liberties GAA. Advertisement The silks were worn by Paul Townend during the Aintree Grand National in 2024 when he rode I am Maximus to glory. The Willie Mullins-trained star is owned by McManus and has recorded nine career wins. 'End of an era for Irish racing' - Patrick Mullins on Thurles closure and future hopes for re-opening at Galway races McManus spent a large portion of his childhood living in Ballysheedy where South Liberties would have been his local club with their Dooley Park venue. The green and gold hooped design on the silks was inspired by the colours of the Limerick GAA club. Advertisement The proud Limerick man presented the silks to the club chairman along with players Barry Nash and Eoghan Godfrey. Nash has been a mainstay in the Limerick team since 2016, winning five All-Irelands and six Munster titles. The two-time All-Star will hope to end his local club's 44-year Limerick senior Championship drought. South Liberties GAA took to social to say: "The club was beyond honoured recently, when JP Mc Manus presented this amazing frame to chairman John Godfrey, along with Barry Nash and Eoghan Godfrey. Advertisement "The South Liberties colours were worn last year by Paul Townend on 'I am Maximus', winning the Aintree Grand National in 2024. "It will be hung with immense pride in our club house. Thank you JP and the McManus families."
Irish Daily Mirror
06-08-2025
- Irish Daily Mirror
The charming Irish city tourists say is 'better than Dublin' but gets overlooked
A pretty little city in Ireland that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy has been hailed as "better" than Dublin. Galway often referred to as the "City of Tribes," is a vibrant and culturally rich city located on the west coast of Ireland. This city is known for its artistic spirit, lively atmosphere, and proximity to some of Ireland's most stunning natural landscapes. Travel blogger The Tales of Tiny Boots wrote about Galway: "When I think of Dublin city, I think of people rushing around, walking as fast as they can through the streets, glued to their phones and getting to their next destination. "The atmosphere is cold. Now to jump to Galway. How do you even compare it? As well as cultural capital, the city is bathed in bohemian vibes that every visitor falls in love with. It feels like Galway is one long 24/7 festival. There is music always drifting through the streets, there are crowds of people milling around and if there is sun, you will find every patch of grass occupied by groups of people drinking, laughing and having the craic. "Life is a lot slower in Galway. People walk slower, they are not rushing and focused on where they need to get, they just enjoy walking around the city. The relaxed vibes emanate from the cobbled streets of the Latin quarter. It is such a happy atmosphere in the streets coupled with amazing performers enticing walkers by to stop and enjoy the entertainment." Galway is a cultural powerhouse, renowned for its thriving arts scene, Express reports. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Film Fleadh and the Galway Races. Traditional Irish music is a constant presence in Galway's many pubs, where you can enjoy live performances in an authentic setting. The main street in Galway (Image: Douglas Sacha) The city was designated the European Capital of Culture in 2020, highlighting its status as a centre for creativity and cultural expression. The city centre is characterised by its narrow, winding streets that date back to medieval times. Eyre Square, the Spanish Arch and the Claddagh area are just a few of the historic sites that give the city its distinct character. Another interesting reason for the tourists to be in the city is its food scene. The food culture is diverse and thriving, with a strong emphasis on local produce and seafood. The city is home to several award-winning restaurants, as well as a variety of cafes and food markets. Galway's nightlife is legendary, with a wide range of pubs offering everything from traditional Irish music sessions to modern live bands. The Latin Quarter, in particular, is a popular area for both locals and tourists to enjoy a night out. Sunset view over The Claddagh in Galway city (Image: (Image: Getty)) One traveller wrote on TripAdvisor forum: "Galway Bay is the site of a historic city in the West of Ireland. These days, the cobbled narrow backstreets are homes for artisans. Among the artisans are those who knit the ganseys. 'Ganseys' are derived from 'Guernsey,' which are worn by fishermen. "The ganseys are uniquely knit to a family pattern, which helps identify those fishermen who work at sea. The Claddagh is a historic fishing village that is known for its location and beauty. Galway is a wonderful place to wander around in search of artisan products." A second user said: "Sat here while visiting with my daughter in Galway and ate our donuts and bagels from the market that day. The market is a must-do as the food is incredible as well as the arts and crafts you can see and buy." Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here
