In a significant development for Irish National Hunt racing, QuinnBet has announced an increased prize fund of €100,000 ($108,176) for the QuinnBet Grand National Trial, elevating the race to listed status. This enhancement underscores QuinnBet’s commitment to Irish racing and marks the second consecutive year of their sponsorship for the Punchestown Grand National Trial.
Background and Partnership Renewal
In January 2023, QuinnBet entered into a three-year sponsorship agreement for the Punchestown Grand National Trial, solidifying their role as a key supporter of Irish jumps racing. This partnership has proven fruitful, with QuinnBet Head of Sponsorship & Commercial, Niall McPartland, expressing delight in renewing the sponsorship for 2024 and beyond.
Significance of the QuinnBet Grand National Trial
Scheduled for February 18, the QuinnBet Grand National Trial holds a central position in QuinnBet’s National Hunt sponsorship strategy. The race, featuring a seven-race card, serves as a crucial stepping stone for both Irish and UK Grand National contenders.
Prize Fund Boost and Listed Status
The headline-grabbing increase in the prize fund to €100,000 adds a layer of prestige to the QuinnBet Grand National Trial. This substantial purse is expected to attract a competitive field for the 2024 edition. Additionally, the race’s promotion to listed status reflects its growing importance on the Irish racing calendar.
Testimonials and Acknowledgments
Niall McPartland, QuinnBet’s Head of Sponsorship & Commercial, expresses gratitude to Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) for their support and acknowledges the collaborative efforts of Punchestown sponsorship manager Leona Hughes and her team in ensuring the success of showcasing QuinnBet’s brand at this iconic venue.
Leona Hughes, Punchestown Sponsorship Manager, shares her enthusiasm for the continued partnership with QuinnBet, highlighting the positive impact of the increased prize fund and listed status on the feature handicap race.
Racing Excitement at Punchestown
Looking back at the 2023 renewal, Leona Hughes expresses optimism about the upcoming QuinnBet Grand National Trial. Anticipation is high for an afternoon of quality racing, with multiple chase races set to captivate racing enthusiasts.
Macau Horse Racing Company Agreement
In a contrasting development, last month saw the Macau Horse Racing Company terminate the “Concession Contract for the Exclusion Operation of Horse Racing” through an agreement with the Macau Government. Effective April 1, 2024, horse racing in Macau will cease to continue.
The QuinnBet Grand National Trial’s increased prize fund and elevated status add a new chapter to the rich tapestry of Irish National Hunt racing. As QuinnBet continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the sport, the 2024 edition promises to be a thrilling showcase of top-class competition. Meanwhile, the conclusion of horse racing in Macau marks a significant change in the horseracing landscape, highlighting the dynamic nature of the sport on a global scale.