Our Galway racing tips cover all 8 races on the card today, Friday 31st July 2026. The action gets underway at 17:00 and runs through to 20:40, with going reported as Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered).
A few names jump off the page from a course-form perspective. Taipan boasts a 66.67% strike rate from 3 runs at the track, Eoin Staples has been in fine form here with 3 wins from 14 rides, C W J Farrell’s yard sends out runners with a 22.22% strike rate at this venue. Below you’ll find race-by-race breakdowns with our top selections, live odds and tipster picks.
Tipster Performance at Galway
Here’s how the leading tipsters have fared at Galway over the last two years (minimum 10 selections):
| Tipster | Source | Selections | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | Daily Post | 13 | 6 | 46.15% | 76.92% |
| Ian Gaughran | Irish Herald | 17 | 3 | 17.65% | 52.94% |
| Brian Flanagan | Irish Daily Star | 25 | 2 | 8% | 48% |
| The Irish Sun | The Irish Sun | 28 | 2 | 7.14% | 46.43% |
17:00 – James’s Gate Irish EBF Median Auction Maiden (IRE Incentive Race)
Race Details: 7f | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This looks a typically deep Galway juvenile maiden, with plenty of runners but a fairly clear shape to the market. Otherworldly sets the standard on an official rating of 88 and arrives with the strongest bare form, while Joga Bonito has been knocking on the door and brings the solid, reliable profile of a colt who should be winning a race soon. Ischgl also has numbers that put him right in the argument despite a lesser latest effort, and High Morals is another with a bit of upside after just two starts. There are plenty of unknowns among the newcomers, but in a race like this proven ability usually counts for plenty, especially over 7f on yielding to soft ground. Strong enough maiden, but not one without an each-way angle.
Top Selections
1. Otherworldly – 7/4 with Bet365
Jockey: J M Sheridan | Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien | Form: 26 | Rating: 88 | Topspeed: 68
Otherworldly is the obvious one, but sometimes the obvious one is still the right one. That 88 rating is the standout figure in the field and his form of 2 then 6 suggests he has already shown more than enough ability to take an ordinary maiden of this type. The draw in 2 should do no harm around here, and Joseph O’Brien’s juveniles are rarely short of polish. At 7/4 he is no giveaway, but he does set the standard on what we know and looks the runner most likely to cope if this turns tactical or attritional in the ground. Hard to oppose.
Bet: WIN
2. High Morals – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Chris Hayes | Trainer: William Durkan | Form: 82 | Rating: 72 | Topspeed: 39
High Morals makes more each-way appeal than some of the better-known names because there is still room for a chunk of improvement after only two starts. He shaped with definite promise first time out and then built on it to finish second, which is the sort of progression you want to see in a race full of either exposed maiden types or complete unknowns. Chris Hayes is a positive booking and stall 5 looks workable. The rating of 72 leaves him with ground to make up on the principals, but this is exactly the kind of race where a straightforward progressive sort can outrun double-figure odds. At 10/1, he looks the value each-way play.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple: Otherworldly is the win bet because he brings the best form and the best rating into the race. For an each-way punt, High Morals appeals as the one open to further progress at a fairer price. Joga Bonito is the obvious danger after three solid efforts, while Ischgl is capable of bouncing back if forgiven his latest run.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Morals | 10/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Mirren | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Otherworldly | 7/4 | 13/8 | 13/8 | 13/8 | 7/4 | 7/4 (Bet365) |
| Sovreigns Joy | 25/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Betfair) |
| Joga Bonito | 9/4 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 2/1 | 9/4 | 9/4 (Bet365) |
| Petrolio | 50/1 | 35/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Supreme Act | 80/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Imperial Duke | 100/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Ischgl | 7/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Betfair) |
| Jisir | 66/1 | 40/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Pennsylvania Ave | 10/1 | 8/1 | 17/2 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Good Newbridge | 100/1 | 70/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Heart Of You | 11/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Cromane | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Romance | 33/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Amigos Legacy | 100/1 | 125/1 | 125/1 | 125/1 | 125/1 | 125/1 (Betfair) |
| Closefield Beau | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| September Duke | 80/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
17:30 – Guinness Beginners Chase
Race Details: 2m 6f | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This looks a pretty informative beginners’ chase rather than a throwaway summer contest, with Willie Mullins holding a notably strong hand through Vicar Street and Ocastle Des Mottes. The market has latched on to Vicar Street, and understandably so after that solid return to action when third, while Ocastle Des Mottes has the profile of one who could leave a previous disappointment behind now going chasing. Mickie Angel brings reliable enough recent form and sets a fair standard, while Talk In The Park is capable if keeping his jumping together. After that, it thins out quickly and several arrive with plenty to prove. It feels like a race where class and technique over fences will decide it, and the Mullins pair look central to everything.
Top Selections
1. Vicar Street – 11/8 with Bet365
Jockey: Harry Cobden | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: 4/12-3 | Rating: 126 | Topspeed: 96
He is the obvious one, but not an easy one to crab. Vicar Street has the best rating in the field, arrives off a respectable comeback third, and his earlier hurdle form suggested he had a race like this in him once sent over fences. Mullins rarely wastes bullets in these beginners’ chases at Galway and the booking of Harry Cobden catches the eye as well. The 2m6f trip should suit, and on a track where balance and professionalism matter, he looks the runner most likely to do things right. At 11/8 he is not a giveaway, but he still makes plenty of appeal as the one to beat. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Ocastle Des Mottes – 10/3 with Bet365
Jockey: Paul Townend | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: 25/4-P | Rating: 125 | Topspeed: 113
If you want to take on the favourite at a bigger price, Ocastle Des Mottes is the interesting angle. His form figures are not spotless and that pulled-up effort leaves a blemish, but he is only 1lb shy of Vicar Street on ratings and has enough ability to make a beginners’ chase of this nature look very manageable. Paul Townend siding with him is an obvious plus, and this switch to fences could easily sharpen him up rather than expose him. At 10/3, he looks the value play in the race, especially if he settles and takes to the larger obstacles from the outset. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Vicar Street is the win play and the one with the least guesswork attached. For an each-way punt, Ocastle Des Mottes makes more appeal than the rest because his raw ability gives him a clear place chance and potentially more if the favourite underwhelms. Mickie Angel is the solid danger, while Talk In The Park has enough form to nick a place if bouncing back.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ballystone | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Glens Sensation | 100/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Mickie Angel | 11/2 | 5/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 11/2 (Bet365) |
| Ocastle Des Mottes | 10/3 | 10/3 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 10/3 | 10/3 (Bet365) |
| Talk In The Park | 9/2 | 9/2 | 11/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 11/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Themanintheanorak | 18/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Vicar Street | 11/8 | 1/1 | 1/1 | 1/1 | 5/4 | 11/8 (Bet365) |
| Wendrock | 22/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Seventy Eight Team | 66/1 | 50/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
18:00 – Guinness Galway Blazers Handicap Chase
Race Details: 2m 6f | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This is exactly the sort of Galway handicap that can make fools of plenty of solid judges: 22 runners, compressed weights, and a stack of Irish summer form to untangle. Willie Mullins throws several at it, with Jalila Moriviere the most obvious of them on recent evidence, while Rexem, Charlie Luciano and Antrim Coast arrive with profiles that make plenty of appeal in a race where tactical position and clean jumping will matter a great deal. Kings Hill also shaped well last time and looks the type to be involved if this turns into a proper test from a fair way out. It is a deep, competitive renewal rather than a weak one, but there is still a feeling that a well-treated, in-form chaser can get to the bottom of it.
Top Selections
1. Rexem – 8/1 with William Hill
Jockey: Josh Williamson | Trainer: John C McConnell | Form: -57342 | Rating: 150 | Topspeed: 137
Rexem looks the percentage call in a race full of moving parts. He has been knocking on the door, the recent 4-2 figures suggesting he is back in the groove, and his topspeed mark of 137 is one of the standout pieces of evidence in this field. Carrying 146, he is not badly treated for a horse with his back class, and McConnell’s runners are always worth respecting in these big Irish handicaps when they start stringing solid efforts together. At 8/1 he makes plenty of appeal because he brings the right mix of current form, pace and proven handicap ability. He holds strong claims if producing another clean round.
Bet: WIN
2. Kings Hill – 11/1 with Bet365
Jockey: J J Slevin | Trainer: Paul John Gilligan | Form: 4513-2 | Rating: 141 | Topspeed: 133
Kings Hill looks a very fair each-way play in a race where you want something arriving in form but still on a workable mark. His latest second advertised that he is in good heart, and the sequence around it reads well enough for a horse who can travel and stick at it. Off 141, with 153 to carry, he does not look overburdened in this company, and Slevin is the sort of rider you want in a rough-and-tumble Galway chase. The 11/1 on offer looks generous when set against a solid topspeed figure of 133 and a profile that suggests he should cope well with this test. He is the each-way value in the line-up.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Rexem is the win play because he brings the strongest recent profile and a big topspeed number for this grade. Kings Hill is the each-way punt at double-figure odds, with his current form making him very easy to like for a place at least. The obvious dangers are Jalila Moriviere, who has a classy look, and Charlie Luciano, who is well enough treated if building on that latest win.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Addragoole | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Jalila Moriviere | 7/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (William Hill) |
| Ballybawn Belter | 8/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 17/2 | 17/2 (William Hill) |
| Littlefoot | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Intense Approach | 18/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Betfair) |
| Kings Hill | 11/1 | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Yoradreamer | 22/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| Moonovercloon | 22/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Bet365) |
| A Penny A Hundred | 28/1 | 22/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Shanbally Kid | 28/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Rising Dust | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (William Hill) |
| A Law Of Her Own | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Baltic Bird | 40/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
| Donnie Devito | 14/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Hermino AA | 9/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Warriors Wood | 16/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Antrim Coast | 17/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 9/1 (William Hill) |
| Rexem | 15/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (William Hill) |
| Charlie Luciano | 15/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 (Bet365) |
| Lord Lariat | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| El Champo | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (William Hill) |
18:35 – Guinness Handicap
Race Details: 1m 4f | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This is exactly the sort of Galway handicap that can make fools of the market, with 18 runners, a stack of unexposed types and a few proven handicap operators all converging over a testing 1m4f on yielding to soft ground. Willie Mullins brings the likely favourite Thread Of Gold, who arrives on the back of a win and has the profile of one still ahead of his mark, while Fixation and Mr Vettori are obvious players after solid recent efforts. Night Moon is interesting returning from a long absence with a win already in the book, and Chica Guerrera comes here in form after getting her head back in front. It looks a proper race rather than a weak summer handicap, but it is also a tricky puzzle where tactical position and stamina up the hill will matter plenty.
Top Selections
1. Thread Of Gold – 10/3 with Bet365
Jockey: W J Lee | Trainer: W P Mullins | Form: 17-31 | Rating: 100 | Topspeed: 78
He is the obvious one, but not for flimsy reasons. Thread Of Gold has only had four starts, won twice, and looked like a horse learning quickly when getting the job done last time. A mark of 100 may still underestimate him, particularly as he is a 3yo from a yard that knows exactly what is required at this meeting. W J Lee is an eyecatching booking and the draw in 8 looks workable in a race where you do not want to be trapped too far back. At 10/3 he is not exactly hidden, but he still makes plenty of appeal as the progressive sort in a race full of exposed handicappers. Bet: WIN
2. Touch The Moon – 16/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Chris Hayes | Trainer: William Durkan | Form: 038-24 | Rating: 105 | Topspeed: 96
If you want one at a price, Touch The Moon makes plenty of each-way sense. He has been running well without winning, and that recent 2-4 sequence suggests he is knocking on the door in this sort of company. His Topspeed figure of 96 is one of the better numbers in the field, which tells you the engine is there, and the combination of Chris Hayes and a handy racing weight of 130 catches the eye. Stall 15 is not ideal around Galway, but he stays, handles cut and looks the type to keep finding when others have cried enough. At 16/1, he looks overpriced for a horse with solid handicap credentials. Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Thread Of Gold is the win play, even if the price is no giveaway, because he looks the most likely improver in the line-up. Touch The Moon is the each-way punt at a much bigger number, with five places softening the risk. Dangers are easy enough to find in a race like this, notably Fixation, Mr Vettori and the unexposed Night Moon.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shaool | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| This Songisforyou | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (William Hill) |
| Dawn Rising | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Chica Guerrera | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Port Of Spain | 8/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| The Real Screamer | 16/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Fixation | 13/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Touch The Moon | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Kingstonian | 11/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Mo Ghille Mar | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Tribal Star | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Mr Vettori | 8/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Bet365) |
| Thread Of Gold | 10/3 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 3/1 | 10/3 | 10/3 (Bet365) |
| Immutable | 10/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (William Hill) |
| Navy Waters | 18/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Night Moon | 15/2 | 15/2 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Satono Chevalier | 28/1 | 35/1 | 35/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 35/1 (Betfair) |
| Narlita | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Brian Flanagan | Mr Vettori |
19:10 – Guinness Irish EBF Fillies Maiden
Race Details: 1m 4f | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This is a big, messy Galway maiden on paper, but the shape of it is fairly clear enough. The three-year-olds dominate the market and, on what they’ve shown, they should dominate the finish too. Porters Corner sets the standard after a solid debut third for Paddy Twomey, while Cosmetic arrives with the strongest recent form figures and a notably smart Topspeed mark of 68. Pleased and Stellar Moment have also shown enough to make this competitive, but they may just lack the same upside. The older fillies are an interesting subplot rather than the main story, although Pampar Lady and Run For Mahler could make life awkward if this turns into a proper stamina test. It’s not a vintage maiden, but it is a tricky enough betting race with a short-priced favourite worth taking on at the prices.
Top Selections
1. Porters Corner – 11/4 with Paddy Power
Jockey: W J Lee | Trainer: P Twomey | Form: 3 | Rating: 75 | Topspeed: 49
Porters Corner is the one I want on side. Twomey’s newcomers are rarely overhyped and this filly shaped with plenty of promise when third on debut, a run that suggested this sort of trip would suit well rather than stretch her. There should be natural improvement to come from that first outing, and in a race where several of the principals have had a few chances already, she appeals as the progressive sort. W J Lee is a significant booking in these Galway maidens and the 11/4 on offer looks fair rather than flashy. She doesn’t need to be exceptional to win this; just better for experience, which is exactly what she’s entitled to be. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Pampar Lady – 11/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Gary Carroll | Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Form: 2 | Rating: 77 | Topspeed: 30
If you want something at a price against the obvious three-year-olds, Pampar Lady makes plenty of each-way appeal. She’s a seven-year-old, which is unusual in a maiden, but she comes here off a runner-up effort and owns a perfectly respectable rating of 77. More importantly, Cromwell’s runners in these staying races tend to know their job, and this filly doesn’t have to improve bundles to get involved if the younger brigade fail to progress. The market has her at 11/1, which looks workable in a 20-runner race with three places on offer. She may lack the sexy profile of the leading stables’ fillies, but she brings some battle-hardness and that counts for plenty around Galway. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Porters Corner is the win play, chiefly because she looks the one most likely to take a step forward from debut and that can be decisive in a race like this. Pampar Lady is the each-way punt at double-figure odds, with enough solid form to outrun her price. Cosmetic is the obvious danger on recent figures, while Pleased is another who shouldn’t be far away.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acanto | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Capolinea | 100/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 100/1 (Bet365) |
| Galileo Springs | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Pampar Lady | 10/1 | 9/1 | 11/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Run For Mahler | 5/1 | 7/2 | 5/1 | 9/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 (Bet365) |
| Shemiyka | 66/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Betfair) |
| Study Of Motion | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
| Thisistheway | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 (Bet365) |
| Cosmetic | 9/4 | 15/8 | 5/2 | 5/2 | 9/4 | 5/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Elusive In Mayo | 125/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 (Betfair) |
| Emily Estherfaye | 125/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 (Betfair) |
| Essential Comedy | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Ocean Fire | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 | 150/1 (Bet365) |
| Pleased | 9/2 | 4/1 | 11/2 | 11/2 | 9/2 | 11/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Porters Corner | 2/1 | 2/1 | 11/4 | 11/4 | 9/4 | 11/4 (Paddy Power) |
| Stellar Moment | 6/1 | 9/2 | 13/2 | 13/2 | 6/1 | 13/2 (Paddy Power) |
| Trumph | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 | 66/1 (Bet365) |
| Possum | 40/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 | 50/1 (Betfair) |
| Mapa | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 | 80/1 (Bet365) |
19:40 – Arthur Guinness Handicap
Race Details: 1m | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This is a proper Galway handicap in miniature: 21 runners, plenty with bits of form, and very little room for error around a turning mile on easing ground. The three-year-olds dominate the line-up and there are a few arriving with obvious momentum, notably Sweet Baby Zou, Femme Beauty and the reliable Ella’s Gold, while Snaafy and Aquilla Star also bring solid recent efforts to the table. Tharaka is interesting on old figures and could easily be better than a mark of 71 after time away, but this isn’t the sort of race where you can ignore match fitness. It looks a tricky puzzle rather than a deep contest, and I’d rather side with those already showing they can cope with handicap rough-and-tumble.
Top Selections
1. Sweet Baby Zou – 13/2 with Bet365
Jockey: J M Sheridan | Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien | Form: 007810 | Rating: 68 | Topspeed: 55
There is a slightly messy profile here, but that is exactly why Sweet Baby Zou appeals in this grade. He got off the mark two starts back and then ran no sort of race when last seen, though that one poor effort doesn’t wipe out the fact he has already shown he can win from this sort of mark. Joseph O’Brien’s runners in these big Galway handicaps are never easily dismissed, and a middle draw gives J M Sheridan options if the race gets scrappy early. Off 68, he doesn’t need to improve much to take this, and 13/2 looks fair in a race full of doubtful stayers, lurkers and hard-luck stories. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Ella’s Gold
Jockey: Robbie Colgan | Trainer: Matthew J Smith | Form: 22-023 | Rating: 70 | Topspeed: 56
Ella’s Gold makes plenty of each-way appeal because she is doing very little wrong and looks sure to give herself a chance again. That recent form string of 22-023 tells its own story: consistent, holding form, and knocking on the door in this sort of company. She gets in here off just 131, which is attractive in a race where several of the principals are carrying more weight without being obviously better treated. Robbie Colgan should be able to ride her for a late run, and if this turns into the usual Galway cavalry charge, a filly arriving in form and carrying a light weight is exactly the type I want on side. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Sweet Baby Zou is the win play at a workable price, with his recent win suggesting he has the right blend of ability and toughness for this race. Ella’s Gold is the each-way option in a 21-runner field with five places on offer, as her consistency makes her very hard to leave out of the frame. Main dangers are Aquilla Star, Snaafy and the potentially well-treated Tharaka.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casamorati | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (William Hill) |
| Only One Scobie | 14/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Sweet Baby Zou | 13/2 | 9/2 | 5/1 | 5/1 | 13/2 | 13/2 (Bet365) |
| Femme Beauty | 11/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (William Hill) |
| Good Man Jack | 20/1 | 14/1 | 16/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 (Bet365) |
| Hassaniya | 10/1 | 17/2 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (William Hill) |
| In The Gloaming | 22/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (William Hill) |
| Down The Glen | 11/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (William Hill) |
| Mr Perth | 14/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (Bet365) |
| Tharaka | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 13/2 | 7/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Belle Nuit | 28/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Aquilla Star | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 8/1 | 8/1 (William Hill) |
| Cosmic Funk | 25/1 | 35/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Paddy Power) |
| John La Bear | 25/1 | 30/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Snaafy | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 (William Hill) |
| Aurora Mist | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (William Hill) |
| Love Orchid | 9/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 (Bet365) |
| Priorstown | 11/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 11/1 | 18/1 (Betfair) |
| Dont Get Me Wrong | 40/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Bet365) |
20:10 – Hop House 13 Handicap
Race Details: 1m 6f | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This is a proper Galway staying handicap: big field, plenty with something to recommend them and very little room for error around here. The three-year-olds get in light and that immediately puts the focus on Vantage Code, Blissful Bonita and Espritroyale, all of whom arrive with workable profiles for a race of this nature. Against them are hardened older handicappers like Lady Plimsoll, Quiz Test and Celtic Druid, who bring more established staying form but less scope. It doesn’t look a vintage renewal, but it is a devilishly tricky puzzle because several come here off respectable efforts in ordinary races and now have to prove they can cope with Galway’s demands. Weight, track position and the ability to see out this trip thoroughly should decide it.
Top Selections
1. Vantage Code – 4/1 with William Hill
Jockey: Ben Coen | Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Form: 7-0723 | Rating: 69 | Topspeed: 54
He makes plenty of appeal in a race where the younger legs could matter. Vantage Code has been shaping as though this sort of staying handicap would suit, and his last two runs suggest he is getting the hang of things now. A mark of 69 looks fair for a three-year-old still learning his job, and carrying just 128 could be a major edge late on up that Galway hill. Emmet Mullins is exactly the sort to target a race like this, and Ben Coen is a positive booking. He is no giveaway at 4/1 with William Hill, but he still looks the most likely winner if building on that recent placed form. Bet type: win.
Bet: WIN
2. Espritroyale – 10/1 with Bet365
Jockey: Nathan Crosse | Trainer: Gavin Cromwell | Form: 0-5652 | Rating: 66 | Topspeed: 52
For an each-way play, Espritroyale is much more interesting than his price might suggest. He took a clear step forward when second last time and, like a few from this age group, looks the type to improve now sent into deeper staying handicaps. Off 66, he is far from harshly treated and gets in with only 124, which is a handy racing weight in a race where plenty of exposed older rivals are lumbered with more. Gavin Cromwell’s runners in these staying events are rarely here for the scenery, and this one has the profile of a horse who can sit handy and keep finding. At 10/1 with Bet365, he looks a solid each-way punt. Bet type: each-way.
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it simple in a race where overthinking can do you no favours. Vantage Code is the win play because the unexposed three-year-old angle and low weight make him hard to oppose. Espritroyale is the each-way alternative at a fairer price and should give a good run for the money. The obvious dangers are Lady Plimsoll, who has a steady profile, and Quiz Test, who looks likely to be staying on late.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Celtic Druid | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (William Hill) |
| Lady Plimsoll | 10/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Tatum | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 (William Hill) |
| Baila Conmigo | 18/1 | 16/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Hexagonal | 12/1 | 11/1 | 12/1 | 12/1 | 14/1 | 14/1 (William Hill) |
| Steps In The Sand | 20/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Trubshaw | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 25/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (William Hill) |
| Mr Rango | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 | 28/1 (Bet365) |
| Quiz Test | 10/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Blackjack Hills | 11/1 | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 | 11/1 | 11/1 (Bet365) |
| Coulstys Way | 18/1 | 14/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 | 18/1 (Bet365) |
| Nancee Spain | 20/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 (Betfair) |
| Bell Ex Too | 33/1 | 28/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 | 33/1 (Bet365) |
| Vantage Code | 10/3 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 | 4/1 | 4/1 (William Hill) |
| Blissful Bonita | 10/1 | 7/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Espritroyale | 10/1 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 15/2 | 9/1 | 10/1 (Bet365) |
| Out On Friday | 33/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 (Betfair) |
| Covert Legend | 14/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 22/1 | 20/1 | 22/1 (Betfair) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| Adrian Wall | Bell Ex Too |
| The Irish Sun | Quiz Test |
20:40 – Rockshore Refreshingly Irish Race
Race Details: 1m 6f | | Going: Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered) | | mixed
This is only a six-runner finale but it still revolves around a couple of interesting angles. Uxmal brings the standout profile on the figures, with a rating of 113 and the look of a horse who should be very effective over this sort of trip, while stablemate Galileo Dame is officially a pound higher and gets in with just 126. That Joseph O’Brien pair dominate the race on paper. Teed Up is the solid older handicapper in the line-up and his recent third suggests he can be competitive again, while Taipan has enough back class to matter if bouncing back. It doesn’t look a deep race, but the compressed field and selective watering make it just tricky enough if the market leaders underperform.
Top Selections
1. Uxmal – 10/11 with Bet365
Jockey: J M Sheridan | Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien | Form: 1/75-3 | Rating: 113 | Topspeed: 99
Uxmal makes the most appeal in a race where the strongest recent and historical numbers sit with him. That comeback third off this mark suggested he retains plenty of ability, and there is a fair chance he comes on for it now stepping into a race lacking depth. His topspeed figure of 99 is one of the better pieces of evidence on offer here, and Joseph O’Brien’s runner looks the one with the cleanest profile for a staying contest like this. At 10/11 he is hardly a secret, but he is still hard to oppose if building on that latest effort. Bet: WIN
Bet: WIN
2. Teed Up – 6/1 with Paddy Power
Jockey: Ronan Whelan | Trainer: Emmet Mullins | Form: 9103-3 | Rating: 97 | Topspeed: 94
Teed Up looks the each-way alternative in a race where only two places are on offer, but he is the one outside the obvious pair who makes some appeal. His latest third was respectable, his topspeed mark of 94 says he still has enough engine, and Emmet Mullins knows how to place these older stayers when there’s a pot to be picked up. He is nine now, so there are no secrets, but he tends to run his race more often than not and this doesn’t look overloaded with improvers. Available at 6/1, he looks the value each-way punt if one of the Joseph O’Brien horses disappoints. Bet: EACH-WAY
Bet: EACH-WAY
Betting Strategy
Keep it straightforward: Uxmal is the win play because he has the best all-round profile and should take beating if progressing from his latest third. Teed Up is the each-way saver at a workable price, especially with some doubts around the rest. Galileo Dame is the obvious danger on ratings and weight, while Taipan could nick a place if reviving.
Live Odds Comparison
| Horse | Bet365 | Betfair | Paddy Power | Sky Bet | William Hill | Best |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Counting Coup | 18/1 | 16/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 | 20/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Taipan | 13/2 | 13/2 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 | 7/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Teed Up | 11/2 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 11/2 | 6/1 | 6/1 (Paddy Power) |
| Uxmal | 10/11 | 5/6 | 5/6 | 5/6 | 10/11 | 10/11 (Bet365) |
| Way Down South | 50/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 40/1 | 50/1 (Bet365) |
| Galileo Dame | 11/4 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 9/4 | 11/4 | 11/4 (Bet365) |
Tipster Selections
| Tipster | Selection |
|---|---|
| bettinggods.com | Uxmal |
Galway Course Specialists
Horses To Note
The top course performers among today’s runners:
| Horse | Runs | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taipan | 3 | 2 | 66.67% | 66.67% |
| El Champo | 3 | 2 | 66.67% | 100% |
| Teed Up | 13 | 6 | 46.15% | 84.62% |
| Immutable | 3 | 1 | 33.33% | 33.33% |
| This Songisforyou | 5 | 1 | 20% | 60% |
Jockeys To Note
The pilots with the strongest records at the course:
| Jockey | Rides | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eoin Staples | 14 | 3 | 21.43% | 35.71% |
| Conor Clarke | 11 | 2 | 18.18% | 36.36% |
| Jack Kennedy | 122 | 22 | 18.03% | 58.2% |
| Patrick M O’Brien | 18 | 3 | 16.67% | 33.33% |
| Paul Townend | 328 | 54 | 16.46% | 59.15% |
Trainers To Note
Yards that have done well at Galway:
| Trainer | Runners | Wins | Win % | Place % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C W J Farrell | 9 | 2 | 22.22% | 33.33% |
| P Twomey | 33 | 7 | 21.21% | 42.42% |
| Miss Natalia Lupini | 19 | 4 | 21.05% | 57.89% |
| D K Weld | 491 | 103 | 20.98% | 49.49% |
| William Coleman O’Brien | 5 | 1 | 20% | 20% |
Summary & Best Bets
That wraps up our Galway racing tips for Friday 31st July 2026. We’ve covered all 8 races with our top selections highlighted above. Use the betting strategies as a starting point, always shop around for the best odds, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
FAQ
What time does racing start at Galway today?
The first race at Galway on Friday 31st July 2026 goes off at 17:00, with 8 races scheduled in total.
What is the going at Galway today?
The going at Galway is reported as Hurdle – GOOD; Chase – GOOD TO YIELDING; Flat – YIELDING TO SOFT (Selectively watered).
How many races are at Galway today?
There are 8 races on the card at Galway today, running from 17:00 through to 20:40.
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