Sponsorships breed confidence

IT HAS been a highly encouraging week in the face of the economic recession, with the Irish Derby sponsorship secured and the continuation of two other classics confirmed.

When Paddy Power announced they were ending their association with the Derby after ten years at the helm, there was a widespread feeling that it would be very difficult to find a replacement. However, on Monday afternoon at Shelbourne, Ladbrokes Ireland were introduced as the new sponsors and they have signed up for a three-year deal. The decision signifies a confidence in the industry and is just the fillip the game needs right now.

The Derby news came hot on the heels of the confirmation of Gain Feeds’ continued support of the Irish Cesarewitch at Mullingar and now we hear that Red Mills have also signed up for this year’s Produce Stakes at Clonmel. This latter classic will kick off on April 1 and 4.