I need a new goal...

[El Gordo]

Hmm. Difficult to give advice. My own carefully-crafted domestic management techniques are not guaranteed to work in another organisation, but for me, there are two approaches:

1) present it as a benefit (Wouldn't it be great to have a weekend in Dublin?)

2) emotional blackmail (It's really important for me to do this race; it would be the highlight of my racing career...). How could she possibly refuse such an earnest plea?

As for foot-dragging, I think the most effective approach is to point out that accommodation and plane seats are already in short supply, and if arrangements are not made soon, it might be too late.