New jumps series for Ireland

National Hunt claiming riders in Ireland can now look forward to a new championship which gets underway at Down Royal on St Stephen's Day.

The 'Martinstown Opportunity Series' will have 14 races in total, including the final at the 2004 Punchestown Festival.

Jointly sponsored by Martinstown Stud owner, JP McManus, and the Irish National Hunt Steeplechase Committee, the new series will be operated on a points system with each race offering a total of 26 points.

The winning rider will be awarded 10 points, the runner-up seven points, the third five points, the fourth three points and the fifth one point.

The rider with the highest number of points at the end of the competition will be deemed the winner and will receive a trophy.

In addition, trainers are to be rewarded for the support they have given the series with their own tournament.

Points will be awarded in exactly the same way as in the riders' series, with the trainer who accumulates the most points also receiving a trophy.

Commenting on the new series, Roy Craigie, senior steward of the INHS Committee said: “We would like to thank and pay tribute to Martinstown Stud for its support for this exciting series.

“The National Hunt stewards recognise the importance of encouraging young riders in this sphere and our hope is that, with the support of owners and trainers, the series will prove a big success and be prolonged for many years to come.”