Chester Racecourse has recently announced an exciting new partnership with Virgin Bet and LiveScore Bet. This collaboration will see Virgin Bet become the title sponsor of the Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend, which is set to take place on September 13-14, 2024. This event, now rebranded as the Virgin Bet Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend, promises a thrilling lineup of races, including a seven-race card with a substantial prize pool.
Title Sponsorship and Event Rebranding
Virgin Bet’s involvement as the title sponsor will bring a fresh branding to the Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend. This prestigious sponsorship highlights Virgin Bet’s commitment to enhancing the racing experience. The event will feature a packed race day on Saturday, September 14, with a total of seven races. The highlight of the day will be the Virgin Bet Stand Cup Stakes, one of the key races under this new partnership.
Notable Races and Prize Pool
The race day will showcase a variety of thrilling competitions, with a total prize pool of £290,000 (approximately $379,000). Virgin Bet and LiveScore Bet will co-sponsor three significant races, including the Listed Stand Cup Stakes and the Watergate Cup. These races are expected to attract substantial attention from both racing enthusiasts and bettors.
Expanded Partnership with Safety Focus
The partnership with Virgin Bet and LiveScore Bet builds on their previous collaboration, which saw the brands sponsor two races at the Powells Jewellery Ladies Day last month. In a bid to enhance the overall experience and safety of attendees, Virgin Bet’s personal safety partner, WalkSafe, will also be integrated into the race weekend sponsorship. This initiative reflects a growing commitment to improving safety and security at major sporting events.
Statements from Key Figures
Dominic Vye, Marketing Director at Virgin Bet, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to announce Virgin Bet and LiveScore Bet’s sponsorship with Chester Racecourse. Being the oldest racecourse still in operation, Chester holds a special place in the hearts of racing enthusiasts, and we are excited to now be a part of the Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend and help deliver an unparalleled sports betting experience.”
Kate Dawson, Commercial Director at Chester Racecourse, also shared her excitement: “Virgin Bet and LiveScore Bet are committed to being leading players in horse racing, so we are naturally delighted to announce their partnerships with our racecourse. The Saturday of our Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend features a fantastic card of racing, with the Virgin Bet Stand Cup Stakes and LiveScore Bet Watergate Cup both being broadcast on ITV and Sky Sports Racing. There are many opportunities to explore through this partnership, and we look forward to working with Virgin Bet to bring those to fruition.”
The Virgin Bet Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend is set to be a significant event on the racing calendar, combining top-notch horse racing with a focus on food and drink, all under the auspices of major betting brands. The integration of WalkSafe as part of the sponsorship also underscores a commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
The collaboration between Chester Racecourse, Virgin Bet, and LiveScore Bet represents a strategic alignment of interests, with each party bringing their strengths to the table. For Chester Racecourse, this partnership not only enhances the prestige of their Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend but also offers a dynamic and engaging experience for racegoers.
The Virgin Bet Autumn Racing Food & Drink Weekend is shaping up to be a landmark event, driven by a robust partnership and a shared commitment to excellence in horse racing and sports betting. The rebranding of the event and the addition of key races and safety measures highlight the growing synergy between racing venues and betting brands, promising an exciting future for all involved.