New sponsor for Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse

Boylesports will sponsor the 2014 Irish Grand National, which takes place at Fairyhouse Racecourse, Ratoath, on Easter Monday, 21st April.

Ireland’s largest independent bookmaker will take over the reins as official sponsors of one of Ireland’s most historic steeplechase races, which has been run at Fairyhouse since 1870.

General Manager of Fairyhouse, Peter Roe said: 'It’s fantastic for us to welcome such a prestigious brand as Boylesports, who already have a great relationship with Irish racing, as the new sponsor of the Irish Grand National. It’s always been the 'Race of the People' which captures the imagination of every man, woman and child in the country. This is also the race where the syndicate, small owner and trainer have the opportunity to come and take on the most famous names in the sport.”

He added: 'The last two winners were big outsiders and came from small family yards in Meath and Westmeath, which proves that the dream of winning the Irish Grand National can be realised. We're now looking forward to building on our new relationship with Boylesports to make this great Easter event a classic to remember,' he continued.

John Boyle, of Boylesports said: “Boylesports are absolutely delighted to announce our sponsorship of the Irish Grand National. This is undoubtedly the most iconic race of the year and is one of the biggest events in Ireland’s sporting and social calendar, with a prize-fund of €250,000, the Boylesports Irish Grand National is the most valuable steeplechase race in Ireland.  We’re looking forward to attracting some strong challengers from Britain, as has been the case in previous years. The impressive roll of honour for this race, which is the highlight of the Easter celebrations, includes many greats such as the legendary Arkle who won the race 50 years ago.”

Mr Boyle added: “We’re very proud and privileged to be associated with Ireland’s greatest race and we look forward to working with our partners at Fairyhouse in making the 2014 Boylesports Irish Grand National an unforgettable race - a race for the people.”

Drumree-native jockey Barry Geraghty has been named the ambassador for the 2014 Boylesports Irish Grand National. As part of his role as ambassador, Barry will help promote the Boylesports Irish Grand National to the wider audience through social networks and various media channels.

Now living in Ratoath, Geraghty said said: “With Fairyhouse being my local track, it’s brilliant to be the Boylesports Irish Grand National Ambassador. It’s a race I’ve been going to since a very young age with my family. I’ve dreamt of winning the Boylesports Irish Grand National since I was a child and I’m still dreaming. Hopefully 2014 will be my year!”