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Undid revision 1187443999 by RanR (talk) This is the introduction sentence so includes a summary of both. Both sports have their own sections within the article already and titles (Rugby) should not be linked either.
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{{Use Irish English|date=October 2013}}
{{Use Irish English|date=October 2013}}
{{Infobox venue
{{Infobox venue
| stadium_name = The Sportsground
| stadium_name = Dexcom Stadium
| nickname = Galway Sportsgrounds
| nickname =
| image = [[File:Galway Sportsgrounds - 2.jpg|250px]]
| image = [[File:The Sportsground.jpg|300px]]
| caption = Connacht vs Leinster at Galway Sportsgrounds
| caption = View from College Road
| location = [[Galway]], Ireland
| location = College Road, [[Galway]], Ireland
| surface = pitch (4G fourth generation artificial surface) <br>track (all-sand)
| surface = Pitch (3G synthetic surface)
| capacity = 8,129<ref name="Galway Sportsground capacity">{{cite web |title=ABOUT CONNACHT RUGBY |url=https://www.connachtrugby.ie/more/about-connacht-rugby/ |website=Connacht Rugby |access-date=27 April 2021}}</ref>
| capacity = 6,129 (expandable to 8,129)<ref name="Galway Sportsground capacity">{{cite web |title=ABOUT CONNACHT RUGBY |url=https://www.connachtrugby.ie/more/about-connacht-rugby/ |website=Connacht Rugby |access-date=27 April 2021 |archive-date=1 March 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301193311/https://www.connachtrugby.ie/more/about-connacht-rugby/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| record_attendance = 9,120 <br> (Connacht vs Toulouse, 19 November 2011)<ref name="CON TOU 2011" />
| record_attendance = 9,120 <br> (Connacht vs Toulouse, 19 November 2011)<ref name="CON TOU 2011" />
| opened = 1927
| opened = 1928
| owner = The Galway Agricultural & Sports Society Ltd.
| owner = The Galway Agricultural & Sports Society Ltd.
| tenants = [[Greyhound Racing Ireland]] <br>[[Connacht Rugby]] (1927–present)
| tenants = [[Connacht Rugby]] <br>[[Greyhound Racing Ireland]]
| coordinates = {{coord|53.2790|-9.0397|type:landmark}}
| coordinates = {{coord|53.2790|-9.0397|type:landmark}}
| publictransit = [[Galway railway station]]
| publictransit = [[Galway railway station]]
| website = {{URL|https://www.grireland.ie/go-greyhound-racing/our-stadiums/galway-greyhound-stadium/|Greyhounds}}<br>{{URL|https://www.connachtrugby.ie/|Rugby}}
| website = {{URL|https://www.connachtrugby.ie/|Rugby}}
}}
}}


'''Dexcom Stadium''' (formerly '''The Sportsground''') is the home of Connacht Rugby. It opened in 1927 and has been used to host [[Connacht Rugby]] matches since. Dexcom Stadium is able to hold up to 8,129 people without temporary seating. When [[Greyhound racing in Ireland|greyhound racing]] racing takes place at the stadium and adjoining premises, they trade as the [[Galway Greyhound Stadium]].
'''The Sportsground''', also known as '''The Galway Sportsgrounds''' and the '''Galway Greyhound Stadium''' and the '''Connacht Rugby Stadium''' is a [[multi-purpose stadium]] in [[Galway]], [[Ireland]]. It opened in 1927, with the playing of a football match and has been used to host [[Connacht Rugby]] matches and greyhound racing since that time.


== History ==
It is used as a base by Connacht Rugby for training and hosting matches at all levels. [[Greyhound racing in Ireland|Greyhound racing]] takes place on Friday and Saturday evenings.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.grireland.ie/go-greyhound-racing/our-stadiums/galway-greyhound-stadium/|title=Galway Greyhound Stadium|work=Greyhound Racing Ireland}}</ref>
=== 20th Century ===

In 1928, the Sports Ground or the Sports Field as it was also known opened. The first rugby team to use the ground was [[Galwegians RFC]] who used the ground after moving from the Grammar School grounds.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rugby |work=Galway Observer |date=29 December 1928 |access-date=21 March 2024 |url=https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0004679/19281229/040/0003 | via = [[British Newspaper Archive]]|url-access=subscription }}</ref> In the 1930s, it hosted the varsity matches<ref>{{cite news |title=Dudley Cup for Cork |work=Belfast Telegraph |date=19 December 1930 |access-date=21 March 2024 |url=https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0002318/19301219/143/0008 | via = [[British Newspaper Archive]]|url-access=subscription }}</ref> and Connacht Senior Cup matches for the [[University of Galway]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Connacht Rugby Cup |work=Galway Observer |date=11 March 1933 |access-date=21 March 2024 |url=https://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk/viewer/bl/0004679/19330311/073/0003 | via = [[British Newspaper Archive]]|url-access=subscription }}</ref>
The stadium has been leased on a long term basis to the [[Greyhound Racing Ireland]] who run the greyhound meetings at the Stadium. It is co-leased to Connacht Rugby who use it as their home stadium to play [[rugby union]] matches in the [[United Rugby Championship]] and [[European Professional Club Rugby|European]] competitions.

==Rugby Union==


=== Renovations (2011–2016) ===
Up until 2011, the regular capacity of The Sportsground was 5,500. The stadium was modified and extended in 2011, and again in 2016, instigated by the success of Connacht Rugby. The facilities include the:
Up until 2011, the regular capacity of The Sportsground was 5,500. The stadium was modified and extended in 2011, and again in 2016, instigated by the success of Connacht Rugby. The facilities include the:


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* Uncovered terracing – at the Bohermore and College Road ends of the ground
* Uncovered terracing – at the Bohermore and College Road ends of the ground


The Sportsground is able to hold up to 8,129 people without temporary seating. It recorded its record attendance on 19 November 2011, when a crowd of 9,120 watched Connacht take on [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] in the team's first ever [[European Rugby Champions Cup|Heineken Cup]] match at home.<ref name="CON TOU 2011">{{cite web |title=French aristocrats spoil the party |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/french-aristocrats-spoil-the-party-1.1285810 |website=Irish Times |access-date=28 October 2021}}</ref>
It recorded its record attendance on 19 November 2011, when a crowd of 9,120 watched Connacht take on [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] in the team's first ever [[European Rugby Champions Cup|Heineken Cup]] match at home.<ref name="CON TOU 2011">{{cite web |title=French aristocrats spoil the party |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/french-aristocrats-spoil-the-party-1.1285810 |website=Irish Times |access-date=28 October 2021}}</ref>


Connacht's participation in European rugby's most prestigious club competition, the [[Heineken Cup]], for the first time in the 2011–12 season spurred a new phase of development at the Sportsground to extend formal capacity to 7,500 supporters.<ref name=artist>{{cite web |series=Connacht Catch-Up |title=Artist's Impression of the Sportsground Redevelopments |url=http://officialconnachtrugby.blogspot.com/2011/07/artists-impression-of-sportsground.html |work=Connacht Rugby |date=13 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120327165642/http://officialconnachtrugby.blogspot.com/2011/07/artists-impression-of-sportsground.html | archive-date=27 March 2012}}</ref> The existing Clubhouse Terrace was knocked down to be replaced by the new covered "Clan Terrace". This terrace primarily houses season ticket holders. Ancillary work was also undertaken behind the terrace which saw the construction of a new bar (''The Clan Bar''), food outlets and restroom facilities on the clubhouse side of the ground. A temporary covered and seated "West Stand", adjacent to the existing main stand was also erected for the season.<ref name=artist/> This series of improvements came on the back of developments which the [[Irish Rugby Football Union|IRFU]] had helped to fund in the preceding years, such as a new playing surface, a new clubhouse and floodlighting, while a new gymnasium had been built in 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/7975.php#.WlKx-N9l_IU |work=[[Irish Rugby Football Union|Irish Rugby]] |title=Connacht Excited About Redeveloped Sportsground |date=13 July 2011 |access-date=7 January 2018}}</ref>
===Renovations since 2011===
Connacht's participation in European rugby's most prestigious club competition, the [[Heineken Cup]], for the first time in the 2011–12 season spurred a new phase of development at the Sportsground to extend formal capacity to 7,500 supporters.<ref name=artist>{{cite web |series=Connacht Catch-Up |title=Artist's Impression of the Sportsground Redevelopments |url=http://officialconnachtrugby.blogspot.com/2011/07/artists-impression-of-sportsground.html |work=Connacht Rugby |date=13 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120327165642/http://officialconnachtrugby.blogspot.com/2011/07/artists-impression-of-sportsground.html | archive-date=27 March 2012}}</ref> The existing Clubhouse Terrace was knocked down to be replaced by the new covered "Clan Terrace". This terrace primarily houses season ticket holders. Ancillary work was also undertaken behind the terrace which saw the construction of a new bar (''The Clan Bar''), food outlets and restroom facilities on the clubhouse side of the ground. A temporary covered and seated "West Stand", adjacent to the existing main stand was also erected for the season.<ref name=artist/> This series of improvements came on the back of developments which the [[Irish Rugby Football Union|IRFU]] had helped to fund in the preceding years, such as a new playing surface, a new clubhouse and floodlighting, while a new gymnasium had been built in 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/7975.php#.WlKx-N9l_IU |work=[[IRFU|Irish Rugby]] |title=Connacht Excited About Redeveloped Sportsground |date=13 July 2011 |access-date=7 January 2018}}</ref>


In 2011, planning permission was granted to redevelop the Clan Terrace by building a seated tier above the terrace. This was ultimately not completed.<ref>{{cite web|title=2nd Phase Connacht Branch Stadium Development |url=http://www.3dgraphichouse.ie/index.php?page=_viewer&mact=PropertyManager,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01property_id=80 |work=3D Graphic House |archive-date=29 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130729015338/http://www.3dgraphichouse.ie/index.php?page=_viewer&mact=PropertyManager,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01property_id=80 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref>
In 2011, planning permission was granted to redevelop the Clan Terrace by building a seated tier above the terrace. This was ultimately not completed.<ref>{{cite web|title=2nd Phase Connacht Branch Stadium Development |url=http://www.3dgraphichouse.ie/index.php?page=_viewer&mact=PropertyManager,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01property_id=80 |work=3D Graphic House |archive-date=29 July 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130729015338/http://www.3dgraphichouse.ie/index.php?page=_viewer&mact=PropertyManager,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01property_id=80 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref>


In the summer of 2016, work was completed on an additional seated and covered stand which can hold 300 people. The stand, situated next to the Main Stand, increased the ground's regular capacity to 8,100.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.the42.ie/connacht-extra-seats-pro12-season-2957606-Aug2016/ | work=[[TheJournal.ie|The42]] | title=A new seated stand is in place at the Sportsground for Connacht's upcoming season | date=31 August 2016 | access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> Following a naming rights deal, it was christened as the Grant Thornton Stand.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/37981.php#.WlKzRN9l_IU |work=[[IRFU|Irish Rugby]] |title=Connacht Secure Naming Rights Deal For New Stand |date= September 2016 |access-date=7 January 2018}}</ref>
In the summer of 2016, work was completed on an additional seated and covered stand which can hold 300 people. The stand, situated next to the Main Stand, increased the ground's regular capacity to 8,100.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.the42.ie/connacht-extra-seats-pro12-season-2957606-Aug2016/ | work=[[TheJournal.ie|The42]] | title=A new seated stand is in place at the Sportsground for Connacht's upcoming season | date=31 August 2016 | access-date=7 September 2016}}</ref> Following a naming rights deal, it was christened as the Grant Thornton Stand.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/37981.php#.WlKzRN9l_IU |work=[[Irish Rugby Football Union|Irish Rugby]] |title=Connacht Secure Naming Rights Deal For New Stand |date= September 2016 |access-date=7 January 2018}}</ref>

In October 2018, Connacht unveiled plans for a €30m redevelopment of the Sportsground to turn it into a 12,000 seater stadium with the redevelopment to also include a high-performance training centre.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/connacht-rugby/connacht-rugby-unveil-ambitious-plans-for-30m-redevelopment-of-the-sportsground-37394831.html|title =Connacht rugby unveil ambitious plans for €30m redevelopment of the Sportsground|date=8 October 2017|work=Irish Independent|access-date=9 October 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/connacht-rugby/new-sportsground-the-missing-piece-in-connacht-jigsaw-37398622.html |title =New Sportsground the missing piece in Connacht jigsaw|date=9 October 2017|work=Irish Independent|access-date=9 October 2018}}</ref>


{{wideimage|File:Sporstground Sunset 17 12 2016.jpg|800px|The Sportsground prior to a Connacht vs Wasps European Cup match in December 2016.}}
{{wideimage|File:Sporstground Sunset 17 12 2016.jpg|800px|The Sportsground prior to a Connacht vs Wasps European Cup match in December 2016.}}


=== Redevelopment (2022–present) ===
===International rugby===
In October 2018, Connacht unveiled plans for a €30m redevelopment of Dexcom Stadium to turn it into a 12,000 seater stadium with the redevelopment to also include a high-performance training centre.<ref>{{cite web |date=8 October 2017 |title=Connacht rugby unveil ambitious plans for €30m redevelopment of the Sportsground |url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/connacht-rugby/connacht-rugby-unveil-ambitious-plans-for-30m-redevelopment-of-the-sportsground-37394831.html |access-date=9 October 2018 |work=Irish Independent}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=9 October 2017 |title=New Sportsground the missing piece in Connacht jigsaw |url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/connacht-rugby/new-sportsground-the-missing-piece-in-connacht-jigsaw-37398622.html |access-date=9 October 2018 |work=Irish Independent}}</ref> Plans were submitted to Galway City Council the following December with full planning permission secured in May 2019.

In January 2020, the Government announced funding totalling €20m towards the project, with €10m coming from the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund, and a further €10m from the Project 2040 fund in line with the Government's commitment to "balanced regional development".

Following a delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Phase 1 of the redevelopment began after the 2021/22 season with the installation of a new 3G pitch and LED floodlights.

In 2023, Connacht Rugby Stadium Limited entered into a new lease with Greyhound Racing Ireland. Connacht Rugby Stadium Limited acquired the exclusive naming rights to the property.{{citation needed|date=March 2024}}

On 19th January 2024, Connacht Rugby confirmed that of Phase 2 of the redevelopment would begin in March, with building works beginning on the new high-performance centre beside the existing gym. Construction on the new North Stand is due to begin after the 2023/24 season, which will involved the demolition of existing Clan Terrace and Clubhouse.

== International rugby ==
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{| class="wikitable" style="font-size: 95%;text-align: center;"
|-
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|}


==Other sports==
== Other sports ==
The venue has occasionally hosted [[Gaelic games]] fixtures, including the [[1932 All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship Final]] and the 1942 Galway County Hurling Final.
The venue has occasionally hosted [[Gaelic games]] fixtures, including the [[1932 All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship Final]] and the 1942 Galway County Hurling Final.


When [[Terryland Park]] was being renovated in 1993, [[Galway United F.C.|Galway United]] played at the Sportsgrounds for the first part of that season. It also hosted Galway's first game in European competition in the [[1985–86 European Cup Winners' Cup]].
When [[Terryland Park]] was being renovated in 1993, [[Galway United F.C.|Galway United]] played at the Sportsgrounds for the first part of that season. It also hosted Galway's first game in European competition in the [[1985–86 European Cup Winners' Cup]].


==Greyhound racing==
== Greyhound racing ==
{{main|Galway Greyhound Stadium}}
Racing takes place every Friday and Saturday evening.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.grireland.ie/go-greyhound-racing/our-stadiums/galway-greyhound-stadium/our-facilities/hospitality-suites/|title=Galway Greyhound Stadium|work=Greyhound Racing Ireland}}</ref> Distances are 350, 525, 550, and 575 yards.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greyhound-data.com/stadia.htm?land=ie&st=12019|title=Galway|work=Greyhound Data}}</ref> The feature competition at the track is the Champion Bitch Stake.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.grireland.ie/globalassets/2016-classic--feature-events.pdf|title=Feature Events|website=Greyhound Racing Ireland}}</ref> Ollie Hester has been Racing Manager since 2003. Previous managers were Tom Moran, Luke Colleran, Tom Holland, Ned Shea and Martin Divilly. Eugene Kelly was the first Racing Manager in 1932.{{citation needed|date=June 2022}}


===History===
==See also==
* [[Connacht Rugby]]
The Galway Greyhound Company was established in 1929 but it took a further three years for the first greyhound racing to take place at the west coast venue on the west side of the Lough Atalia. The opening night was during 1932.{{citation needed|date=June 2022}}


By 1978 the stadium required a facelift and the management decided that improvements could only be completed with the closure of the greyhound track. Therefore, in 1978 a new stand with bars and tote facilities was built and the circuit itself was re-laid with increased cambers. The grand re-opening was on 25 May 1979 with the modernisation costing over £500,000.<ref>{{cite news|title=Monthly Greyhound Star (Remember When 1979) May 2010 edition|newspaper=Greyhound Star}}</ref> In March 1998 the track was converted to sand from grass.<ref>{{cite news |author=<!--Staff writer(s)/no by-line.--> |issue=4 |volume=16 |date=4 April 1998 |title=Galway Sand Path |publisher=Greyhound Star}}</ref> In 2003 the track was subject to a major renovation project that cost the Bord na gCon €6m.

As of the early 21st century, Connacht Rugby expressed a desire to redevelop the ground and have been in negotiation with the Greyhound Racing Ireland who hold a 99-year lease.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/gerry-thornley-pat-lam-right-to-grasp-nettle-on-connacht-s-future-prosperity-1.2615292|title=Gerry Thornley: Pat Lam right to grasp nettle on Connacht's future prosperity|publisher=Irish Times | date = 19 April 2016 }}</ref>

===Track records===
'''Current'''
<ref>{{cite web|url=http://greyhoundstar.co.uk/irish-track-records-breeding/|title=Track records|publisher=Greyhound Star}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://greyhoundstar.co.uk/irish-track-records-breeding-2/|title=Galway Track records|publisher=Greyhound Star}}</ref>
{|class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="font-size: 100%"
|-
!width=100| Yards
!width=200| Greyhound
!width=50| Time
!width=100| Date
!width=250| Date
|-align=center
|325 ||Droopys Marco <ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.igb.ie/results/view-results/?track=GLY&date=28-Jul-04#race7|title=Ladbrokes Open 325 final|publisher=Irish Greyhound Board}}</ref>||17.37||28.07.2004||
|-align=center
|350 ||Mall Brandy ||18.62||07.06.2013||
|-align=center
|525 ||Hillcroft Josie ||28.34||28.07.2007||
|-align=center
|550 ||Handy Princess ||29.66||10.03.2007||Champion Bitch Stakes Final
|-align=center
|575 ||Si Senor ||30.97||24.11.2007||
|-align=center
|700 ||Tyrur Rachel ||38.69||30.07.2007||
|-align=center
|725 ||Bogberry Molly ||40.84||27.07.2013||
|-align=center
|810 ||Iflookscouldkill||45.09||04.08.2007||
|-align=center
|525 H ||Top Lark ||29.34||23.07.2004||
|}
'''Former'''
{|class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="font-size: 100%"
|-
!width=100| Yards
!width=200| Greyhound
!width=50| Time
!width=100| Date
!width=250| Date
|-align=center
|325|| Hello Guy ||18.61 ||1950||
|-align=center
|325|| Hello Guy ||18.15 ||1960||
|-align=center
|325|| Move Solar ||18.05 ||1970||
|-align=center
|325|| Shashana ||18.05 ||1970||=equalled
|-align=center
|325|| Ardrine Belle ||17.88 ||28.08.1970||
|-align=center
|325|| Clare Lodge ||17.72 ||26.07.1993||
|-align=center
|325|| The Quiffer ||17.79 ||27.08.1982||
|-align=center
|325|| Altinure Chief ||17.56 ||22.06.2001||
|-align=center
|325|| Tolmaker Hugh ||17.54 ||19.07.2002||
|-align=center
|330|| Carra Ree ||18.60 ||08.05.1950||
|-align=center
|330|| Move Handy ||18.05 ||19.11.1966||
|-align=center
|350|| Aulton Class ||19.35 ||01.08.2007||
|-align=center
|350|| Universal Class ||19.24 ||30.08.2007||
|-align=center
|350|| Liketheclappers ||18.80 ||15.12.2007||
|-align=center
|350|| Balliniska Woods||18.70 ||29.07.2009||
|-align=center
|350|| Hurry Back ||18.68 ||05.08.2011||
|-align=center
|500|| Golden Victory ||28.82 ||20.04.1951||
|-align=center
|525|| Marching Through Georgia||30.00 ||1939||
|-align=center
|525|| [[Spanish Battleship]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://greyhoundstar.co.uk/remember-november-2-2/|title=Remember When - November 1955|publisher=Greyhound Star}}</ref> || || ||
|-align=center
|525|| Gortkelly Hope ||29.57 ||1970||
|-align=center
|525|| Fly On Boy ||29.54 ||29.07.1970||
|-align=center
|525|| Splendid Silver ||29.50 ||18.06.1976||
|-align=center
|525|| New Line Bridge ||29.46 ||12.07.1985||
|-align=center
|525|| No Road Back ||29.34 ||06.1997||
|-align=center
|525|| No Road Back ||29.05 ||07.1997||
|-align=center
|525|| Magical Guest ||29.25 ||02.08.2000||
|-align=center
|525|| Spring Motion ||29.12 ||04.08.2001||
|-align=center
|525|| Plucky Customer ||28.83 ||31.07.2002||
|-align=center
|525|| Master Tom ||28.82 ||06.09.2003||
|-align=center
|525|| Joes Lang ||28.77 ||31.10.2003||
|-align=center
|525|| Niamhs Old Forge||28.70 ||07.11.2003||
|-align=center
|525|| Tyrur Marita ||28.51 ||10.01.2004 ||
|-align=center
|525|| Deel Rover ||28.49 ||16.07.2005 ||
|-align=center
|525|| Droopys Commanche||28.47 ||22.07.2005||
|-align=center
|525|| Holborn Post ||28.46 ||29.07.2006 ||
|-align=center
|550|| Erris Rebel ||31.30 ||1943 ||
|-align=center
|550|| Fealeside Duke ||31.28 ||26.08.1977 ||
|-align=center
|550|| Ollies Missy ||30.74 ||31.07.1986||
|-align=center
|550|| Crossleigh Fudge||30.30 ||27.06.1999||
|-align=center
|550|| Tyrur Bello ||30.12 ||19.07.2002||
|-align=center
|550|| Coolio ||30.11 ||04.12.2003 ||
|-align=center
|550|| Tyrur Marita ||29.82 ||21.05.2004||
|-align=center
|550|| Handy Princess ||29.74 ||03.03.2007|| Champion Bitch Stakes semi-final
|-align=center
|575|| Tom and Gerry ||31.77 ||01.08.2007||
|-align=center
|575|| Illtellyouthis ||31.43 ||08.09.2007||
|-align=center
|575|| Line of Fire ||31.26 ||03.11.2007||
|-align=center
|600|| Farmhill Prince || ||35.05 1950||
|-align=center
|700|| Rambling Customer||41.12||17.06.1960 ||
|-align=center
|700|| Clonmohan Lucy ||41.12 ||15.07.1960||=equalled
|-align=center
|700|| Moyglare Choice ||40.46 ||17.12.1999 ||
|-align=center
|700|| Hello Bud ||39.25 ||01.08.2001 ||
|-align=center
|700|| Hello Bud ||39.25 ||31.07.2002||
|-align=center
|700|| Mustang Kylie ||39.16 ||23.07.2004 ||
|-align=center
|700|| Midland Fire ||39.10 ||20.05.2006 ||
|-align=center
|700|| Blackjack Baggio||39.02 ||24.11.2006 ||
|-align=center
|810|| Desert Chicken ||48.80 ||1970||
|-align=center
|810|| Skilful Story ||46.80 ||08.08.1975||
|-align=center
|810|| Deerwood ||46.60 ||29.07.1985||
|-align=center
|810|| Raheen Treasure ||45.95 ||30.07.2002||
|-align=center
|810|| Eye Rocket ||45.85 ||23.07.2004||
|-align=center
|810|| Group Champ ||45.44 ||30.10.2004||
|-align=center
|810|| Drominboy Jet ||45.33 ||30.07.2005||
|-align=center
|810|| Iflookscouldkill||45.15||04.07.2007||
|-align=center
|-align=center
|325 H||Levally Roe ||19.00 ||13.06.1958 ||
|-align=center
|330 H||Halsham Playboy ||19.80 ||03.09.1955||
|-align=center
|330 H||Gambling Editor ||19.75 ||1956||
|-align=center
|525 H||Bay Moon ||31.00 ||1939||
|-align=center
|525 H||Golsto ||30.55 ||14.07.1956||
|-align=center
|525 H||Group Stinger ||29.65 ||16.09.2000||
|-align=center
|525 H||Slanemore Ivy ||29.65 ||2002||
|-align=center
|525 H||Top Lark ||29.48 ||04.12.2003||
|-align=center
|550 H||Gormans Fancy ||32.90 ||1950||
|}

==See also==
{{commons category}}
{{commons category}}


== References ==
* [[Connacht Rugby]]

==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}


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{{Galway United F.C.}}
{{Galway United F.C.}}
{{Association football in Connacht}}
{{Association football in Connacht}}
{{Greyhound stadiums in Ireland}}


[[Category:Buildings and structures in Galway (city)]]
[[Category:Buildings and structures in Galway (city)]]
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[[Category:Sports venues in County Galway]]
[[Category:Sports venues in County Galway]]
[[Category:Rugby union in County Galway]]
[[Category:Rugby union in County Galway]]
[[Category:Greyhound racing venues in the Republic of Ireland]]

Latest revision as of 16:20, 26 March 2024

Dexcom Stadium
View from College Road
Map
LocationCollege Road, Galway, Ireland
Coordinates53°16′44″N 9°02′23″W / 53.2790°N 9.0397°W / 53.2790; -9.0397
Public transitGalway railway station
OwnerThe Galway Agricultural & Sports Society Ltd.
Capacity6,129 (expandable to 8,129)[1]
Record attendance9,120
(Connacht vs Toulouse, 19 November 2011)[2]
SurfacePitch (3G synthetic surface)
Opened1928
Tenants
Connacht Rugby
Greyhound Racing Ireland
Website
Rugby

Dexcom Stadium (formerly The Sportsground) is the home of Connacht Rugby. It opened in 1927 and has been used to host Connacht Rugby matches since. Dexcom Stadium is able to hold up to 8,129 people without temporary seating. When greyhound racing racing takes place at the stadium and adjoining premises, they trade as the Galway Greyhound Stadium.

History[edit]

20th Century[edit]

In 1928, the Sports Ground or the Sports Field as it was also known opened. The first rugby team to use the ground was Galwegians RFC who used the ground after moving from the Grammar School grounds.[3] In the 1930s, it hosted the varsity matches[4] and Connacht Senior Cup matches for the University of Galway.[5]

Renovations (2011–2016)[edit]

Up until 2011, the regular capacity of The Sportsground was 5,500. The stadium was modified and extended in 2011, and again in 2016, instigated by the success of Connacht Rugby. The facilities include the:

  • Main Stand – which has enclosed corporate facilities and covered terrace underneath
  • Clan Terrace – a covered terrace on the clubhouse side of the ground
  • Covered Stand – a covered seated stand to the side of the main stand which holds 300 people
  • Uncovered terracing – at the Bohermore and College Road ends of the ground

It recorded its record attendance on 19 November 2011, when a crowd of 9,120 watched Connacht take on Toulouse in the team's first ever Heineken Cup match at home.[2]

Connacht's participation in European rugby's most prestigious club competition, the Heineken Cup, for the first time in the 2011–12 season spurred a new phase of development at the Sportsground to extend formal capacity to 7,500 supporters.[6] The existing Clubhouse Terrace was knocked down to be replaced by the new covered "Clan Terrace". This terrace primarily houses season ticket holders. Ancillary work was also undertaken behind the terrace which saw the construction of a new bar (The Clan Bar), food outlets and restroom facilities on the clubhouse side of the ground. A temporary covered and seated "West Stand", adjacent to the existing main stand was also erected for the season.[6] This series of improvements came on the back of developments which the IRFU had helped to fund in the preceding years, such as a new playing surface, a new clubhouse and floodlighting, while a new gymnasium had been built in 2008.[7]

In 2011, planning permission was granted to redevelop the Clan Terrace by building a seated tier above the terrace. This was ultimately not completed.[8]

In the summer of 2016, work was completed on an additional seated and covered stand which can hold 300 people. The stand, situated next to the Main Stand, increased the ground's regular capacity to 8,100.[9] Following a naming rights deal, it was christened as the Grant Thornton Stand.[10]

The Sportsground prior to a Connacht vs Wasps European Cup match in December 2016.

Redevelopment (2022–present)[edit]

In October 2018, Connacht unveiled plans for a €30m redevelopment of Dexcom Stadium to turn it into a 12,000 seater stadium with the redevelopment to also include a high-performance training centre.[11][12] Plans were submitted to Galway City Council the following December with full planning permission secured in May 2019.

In January 2020, the Government announced funding totalling €20m towards the project, with €10m coming from the Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund, and a further €10m from the Project 2040 fund in line with the Government's commitment to "balanced regional development".

Following a delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Phase 1 of the redevelopment began after the 2021/22 season with the installation of a new 3G pitch and LED floodlights.

In 2023, Connacht Rugby Stadium Limited entered into a new lease with Greyhound Racing Ireland. Connacht Rugby Stadium Limited acquired the exclusive naming rights to the property.[citation needed]

On 19th January 2024, Connacht Rugby confirmed that of Phase 2 of the redevelopment would begin in March, with building works beginning on the new high-performance centre beside the existing gym. Construction on the new North Stand is due to begin after the 2023/24 season, which will involved the demolition of existing Clan Terrace and Clubhouse.

International rugby[edit]

International Rugby Union Matches
Date Home Score Opponent Report
1 December 1984  Ireland B 23–20  Scotland A
1 November 1994  Ireland Development 13–20  United States [13]
25 January 2013  Ireland Wolfhounds 10–14  England Saxons [14]

Other sports[edit]

The venue has occasionally hosted Gaelic games fixtures, including the 1932 All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship Final and the 1942 Galway County Hurling Final.

When Terryland Park was being renovated in 1993, Galway United played at the Sportsgrounds for the first part of that season. It also hosted Galway's first game in European competition in the 1985–86 European Cup Winners' Cup.

Greyhound racing[edit]

Main article: Galway Greyhound Stadium

See also[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Galway Sportsgrounds.

References[edit]

  1. ^ "ABOUT CONNACHT RUGBY". Connacht Rugby. Archived from the original on 1 March 2021. Retrieved 27 April 2021.
  2. ^ a b "French aristocrats spoil the party". Irish Times. Retrieved 28 October 2021.
  3. ^ "Rugby". Galway Observer. 29 December 1928. Retrieved 21 March 2024 – via British Newspaper Archive.
  4. ^ "Dudley Cup for Cork". Belfast Telegraph. 19 December 1930. Retrieved 21 March 2024 – via British Newspaper Archive.
  5. ^ "Connacht Rugby Cup". Galway Observer. 11 March 1933. Retrieved 21 March 2024 – via British Newspaper Archive.
  6. ^ a b "Artist's Impression of the Sportsground Redevelopments". Connacht Rugby. Connacht Catch-Up. 13 July 2011. Archived from the original on 27 March 2012.
  7. ^ "Connacht Excited About Redeveloped Sportsground". Irish Rugby. 13 July 2011. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
  8. ^ "2nd Phase Connacht Branch Stadium Development". 3D Graphic House. Archived from the original on 29 July 2013.
  9. ^ "A new seated stand is in place at the Sportsground for Connacht's upcoming season". The42. 31 August 2016. Retrieved 7 September 2016.
  10. ^ "Connacht Secure Naming Rights Deal For New Stand". Irish Rugby. September 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
  11. ^ "Connacht rugby unveil ambitious plans for €30m redevelopment of the Sportsground". Irish Independent. 8 October 2017. Retrieved 9 October 2018.
  12. ^ "New Sportsground the missing piece in Connacht jigsaw". Irish Independent. 9 October 2017. Retrieved 9 October 2018.
  13. ^ "Irish forge strong link with rugby in America". Irish Times. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
  14. ^ "Saxons rally to beat Wolfhounds". espnscrum. Retrieved 7 October 2021.
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