The Galway Plate is a prestigious National Hunt handicap chase run annually at Galway Racecourse in County Galway, Ireland. It is one of the highlights of the week-long Galway Races festival, which typically takes place in late July or early August.
The race is contested over a distance of approximately 2 miles, 6 furlongs, and 111 yards (4,635 metres) and features 17 fences. It is open to horses aged four years and older, and due to its handicap nature, horses carry different weights based on their official rating, designed to give each participant an equal chance of winning. The Galway Plate is renowned for its competitive fields and often attracts a large number of runners.
First run in 1869, the Galway Plate has a rich history and has grown to become one of the most valuable and eagerly anticipated jump races in Ireland outside of the major spring festivals. Its prize money and status ensure that it draws entries from top trainers and owners across Ireland and the United Kingdom. Winning the Galway Plate is considered a significant achievement in National Hunt racing, and it often serves as a stepping stone for horses that go on to compete in other high-profile chases. The race's atmosphere, set against the backdrop of the vibrant Galway Festival, is also a major draw for spectators.