Two mares’ races promoted to Grade 1

HRI yesterday announced a number of upgrades to the National Hunt pattern programme, including the first two Grade 1 races confined to mares.

The Mares’ Novice Hurdle at the Fairyhouse Easter festival moves from Grade 2 status to Grade 1. This year's winner of the race, Shadow Eile, went on to land a further four races over the summer.

The Grade 3 Open Mares’ race on the Saturday of the Punchestown festival has been fast-tracked to Grade 1 status in order to create an end of season championship event for mares.