Betway backing Challow Hurdle Day

The bookmaker will become the new sponsor for the event on December 29

LEADING bookmaker Betway will be the new sponsor of the Grade 1 Challow Novices’ Hurdle, which takes place on Saturday, December 29 – Betway Challow Hurdle Day.

The extended two-and-a-half mile contest, which has a total prize fund of £40,000, is Newbury’s only Grade 1 contest across the National Hunt season.

The roll of honour for the Betway Challow Hurdle features some of Jump racing’s greatest stars, headed by Denman in 2005, who went on to land two runnings of the now Ladbrokes Trophy (2007 & 2009), plus the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Other famous names to have landed the Betway Challow Hurdle include the 2002 Grand National winner Bindaree, as well as King’s Road, Diamond Harry and Barters Hill.

Last year’s renewal produced one of Newbury’s moments of the season when Poetic Rhythm handed his trainer Fergal O’Brien a first Grade 1 success.

Newbury Racecourse chief executive Julian Thick said: “We are delighted and grateful that Betway has come on board to sponsor our sole Grade 1 contest of the season.

“It is always a fascinating race with an illustrious roll of honour.

“Betway Challow Day is always a popular afternoon for racegoers after the indulgences of Christmas, with approximately 10,000 enjoying an afternoon of quality action.

“This year, we will also be saying goodbye to our Clerk of the Course, Richard Osgood, who leaves us following the meeting, after almost 40 years of loyal service.”

Betway will sponsor the entire card on Betway Challow Hurdle Day – Newbury’s final raceday of 2018.

The Betway Challow Novices’ Hurdle is one of four races that will be broadcast live on ITV 4 on the day.

In addition to the Betway Challow Hurdle, the card’s other highlights include the £19,800 Betway Mandarin Handicap Chase and the £18,000 Betway Handicap Hurdle.