The Galway Races get under way behind closed doors this afternoon. The Monday evening meeting marks the start of the 2020 festival but this one is vastly different to the 150 races that preceded it.
Due to ongoing Covid-19 public health restrictions, only essential personnel are allowed entry to Ballybrit over the course of the week.
Car parks are empty, bookmakers are absent, bars and restaurants around the track are closed. This evening's eight-race card got under way with the 4.10pm Claregalway Hotel Hurdle over seven furlongs.
The manager of Galway Racecourse, Michael Moloney, said it was a strange start to the festival but he is confident that a high calibre of racing over the week will keep punters entertained at home.
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