Ladbrokes Renews Sponsorship for Down Royal Festival of Racing

Racing fans are eagerly anticipating an action-packed weekend at the Down Royal Festival, starting with the Bottlegreen Grade 3 Hurdle on Friday, 1st November, and culminating in the prestigious Ladbrokes Grade 1 Champion Chase on Saturday, 2nd November. Alongside the high-stakes races, attendees can enjoy a glamorous Ladies Day and a variety of entertainment options.

With a rich history of featuring legendary horses like Kauto Star and Don Cossack, this year’s event promises to continue the tradition with a total prize fund of €431,000 attracting top competitors.

Emma Meehan, CEO at Down Royal, commented: 

“Ladbrokes has been nothing short of a powerhouse in supporting horse racing in Northern Ireland over the past few years. Their unwavering commitment and continuous investment into both the sport and Down Royal have been instrumental to our success. It’s not just about sponsorship; Ladbrokes shares our deep-rooted passion for horse racing, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome them back for another year. 

“The Ladbrokes Festival is the pinnacle of our racing calendar, a thrilling showcase where the elite of national hunt racing converge at Down Royal. Last year’s Ladbrokes Grade 1 Champion Chase was a spectacle to remember, with Gerri Colombe, under the expert guidance of Jack Kennedy and the legendary training of Gordon Elliott, securing a heart-stopping victory. He edged out the 2022 champion, Envoi Allen, in a race that had everyone on the edge of their seats. We can’t wait to see what extraordinary performances this year will bring as we prepare for another round of top-class racing.”

Nicola McGeady, Ladbrokes Head of PR remarked:

“We at Ladbrokes are absolutely thrilled to be continuing our partnership with Down Royal for another exhilarating year. This collaboration is not just a sponsorship for us, it’s a testament to our dedication to the sport of horse racing.

“The Ladbrokes Festival of Racing stands as a crown jewel in the racing calendar, drawing the best talent and delivering unforgettable moments year after year. The anticipation is palpable, and we are eagerly looking forward to witnessing the drama, the triumphs and the electric atmosphere that this year’s renewal will undoubtedly bring. It’s more than a race; it’s an event where history is made, and we’re proud to be a part of it.”