The official launch of the 2025 Laytown Races was held on Monday at the Cottage Inn, Laytown, drawing a packed crowd for the much-anticipated Pride of Place Race draw.
The event, expertly MC’d by Des Scahill, saw guest of honour MEP Nina Carberry perform the draw. Representatives from all 20 local estates, committee members, and local politicians were in attendance to celebrate the area’s unique racing tradition.
The Pride of Place Race is a special highlight of the day, with ten local estates drawn to represent the runners. The ten estates are:
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Alverno Heights
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Backlanes
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St. Benan’s Villas
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South Shore
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Sidings Apartments
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Sea Mount Cresent
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Sli Ultan
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Castlemary
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St. Patrick’s Square
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High Field
The race, sponsored by Laytown Races, gives back to the local community with prizes for the top three estates. The first-place prize is a €500 garden centre voucher, followed by €400 for second and €300 for third.
Speaking at the launch, Joe Collibs, Chairperson of the Laytown Races Committee, said, “The Laytown Races are truly a community event, and the Pride of Place Race is a fantastic way to celebrate and thank the local residents who make this day so special.”
The Laytown Races, a unique fixture on the Irish racing calendar, have taken place on the sands of the Meath coastline since 1868. This year’s event promises an unforgettable day of top-class racing and community spirit on Thursday, 4th September, with the first race off at 4:30 pm.
