County Kildare News

Ladbrokes have agreed to sponsor the National Stakes. The €250,000 race is Ireland’s premier race for 2 year olds and will take place on Saturday 12th September as part of a “Super Saturday” programme which features The Irish Field St Leger.
 
First run in 1849, the impressive list of previous winners of the Group 1 contest include New Approach, Teofilo, George Washington, Sinndarr, Danehill Dancer, El Gran Senor,  Roberto and Sir Ivor, while 2008 winner Mastercraftsman was crowed Champion 2 year old of Europe following his hard fought victory in the race last year.
 
Joe Lewins, Managing Director of Ladbrokes Ireland commented, “We are delighted with the opportunity to continue our long-standing relationship with The Curragh Racecourse and to further expand our sponsorship portfolio to include the prestigious National Stakes. This sponsorship deal serves a dual purpose for us, as it allows us to continue our support of the racing industry in 2009, and to further compliment our association with quality Irish racing at The Curragh”
  
Ladbrokes, who manage the on course betting shop at the Co. Kildare venue, will also continue to sponsor the Rockingham Handicap taking place on Sunday 12th July.
 
“The Curragh has enjoyed a very good association with Ladbrokes in the past and I am delighted that they have agreed to upgrade their sponsorship by supporting one of our major races of the year,” said racecourse General Manager Paul Hensey.