The Keeneland Association has extended its sponsorship of the Group 1 Keeneland Phoenix Stakes at The Curragh Racecourse in Ireland for an additional three years.
The world's leading bloodstock sales company has supported the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes, one of Europe’s top juvenile races, since 2010. The six-furlong contest, which was first run in 1902, was won for a record 12th time this year by trainer Aidan O’Brien when Pedro the Great came home in front.
The Keeneland Phoenix Stakes has an impressive roster of winners, including Holy Roman Emperor, George Washington, Johannesburg and Saoirse Abu.
“The Curragh has enjoyed a very positive association with Keeneland and we were delighted to welcome their new President Bill Thomason to the races for the first time this year,” said Paul Hensey, The Curragh’s General Manager.
“The Keeneland Phoenix Stakes has an outstanding record for attracting some of the best two-year-olds in Europe and we look forward to working closely with the team at Keeneland to ensure the top owners and trainers continue to target the race with their top juveniles.”
Keeneland’s President Bill Thomason was delighted to announce the sponsorship’s extension, “Keeneland deeply values its relationship with The Curragh,” said Thomason. “Ireland’s Thoroughbred community has been an important part of Keeneland’s sales programme for decades so this partnership is a natural fit. It also is gratifying to partner with such a prestigious international venue where racing is showcased at such a high level.”
The Keeneland Phoenix Stakes will take place on Sunday, August 11, 2013.