Unibet, in collaboration with the Jockey Club and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), has introduced an exciting new racing event known as the Unibet Middle Distance Veterans’ Series.
Celebrating the Racing Legends
This unique series aims to celebrate the seasoned equine athletes by offering a platform for 10, 11, and 12-year-old horses to compete in races covering two miles and four furlongs. The Middle Distance Veterans’ Series provides these older horses with an opportunity to continue showcasing their abilities on the track.
Ed Nicholson, Head of Kindred Group Racing, expressed his excitement, stating, “It is always thrilling to witness beloved older horses competing for significant prize money. Hopefully, the series will encourage owners to keep these legends of our sport in the game for a little longer.”
During the research phase, Nicholson personally engaged with several high-profile owners and trainers to discuss the concept, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback. This endorsement of the series’s concept is a testament to the potential it holds in enhancing the world of horseracing.
A Unique Event Structure
The Unibet Middle Distance Veterans’ Series will consist of six races followed by a grand finale. Notably, participating in the preceding races is not a prerequisite for horses to compete in the finale. However, a noteworthy incentive awaits those horses that do participate in the earlier races and proceed to win the series: a generous £10,000 ($12,214) bonus.
Veteran trainer Nicky Henderson, a six-time Champion Trainer, commended the establishment of a veterans’ chase series over two and a half miles. He highlighted the importance of such races for older horses, whose prime years may be behind them but are still required to compete off high handicap marks. Henderson also emphasized the excitement these races bring to racing fans, who can witness their favorite household names in the twilight of their careers.
Henderson and his team are enthusiastic about supporting this series, further endorsing its potential in elevating the status of senior equine athletes.
Jonathan Burke Named CopyBet Racing Ambassador
In other horseracing news, Jonathan Burke has been appointed as CopyBet’s first racing ambassador. Burke’s role includes hosting Q&A sessions on social media to engage with fans and share insights from his extensive experience in the sport.
The Unibet Middle Distance Veterans’ Series and Jonathan Burke’s ambassadorship represent an exciting new chapter in horseracing, honoring the wisdom and enduring talent of veteran horses and fostering greater fan engagement. These initiatives contribute to the vibrant and evolving landscape of the sport.