William Hill is set to enhance support for smaller racing yards in Ireland through a new jumps series. This initiative, titled the William Hill Each Way Extra Challenge Series, offers a total sponsorship of €135,000 to trainers, jockeys, and stable staff associated with yards having fewer than 50 winners over the previous two seasons.
Series Launch and Structure
The series kicks off on Friday at Gowran Park and will continue for seven months. It encompasses 50 races spread across 28 meetings at 13 different tracks across Ireland.
Proposed by Key Associations
The series was originally proposed by the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association (IRTA) and has garnered support from both the Irish Stable Staff Association and the Irish Jockeys Association. It will include various race formats such as:
- Maiden hurdles
- Handicap hurdles
- Novice and beginner chases
- Handicap chases
- Bumpers
Eligibility Criteria
Trainers with 50 or more winners in the last two seasons, including prominent names like Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott, are not eligible for the final bonus but may still participate in the races. This approach follows recommendations by Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) to exclude these trainers from additional races in 2025, a proposal that was later rescinded after a review.
Points and Prize Distribution
The points system rewards the top seven placements in each race. The overall standings will culminate in a final competition at Kilbeggan on April 24, where various prizes will be distributed, including:
- €50,000 for the winning trainer
- €25,000 for the runner-up
- €10,000 for third place
- Prizes down to tenth place
- €10,000, €5,000, and €2,500 for the top three riders
- Bonus points for jockeys working with qualifying trainers
Additional Incentives for Stable Staff
Stable staff from all participating yards are included in the bonus scheme, with a €100 award for the best-turned-out horse in each race.
William Hill’s Commitment
Sandro Di Michele, William Hill’s director of horse racing, expressed excitement about the new series, stating, “We’re thrilled to launch the new William Hill Each Way Extra Challenge Series. This initiative runs through the real backbone of the Irish jumps season and should positively impact the grassroots of the sport.” He emphasized the company’s goal to be at the heart of Irish racing.
The anticipation builds as the series is set to provide greater opportunities for trainers and participants at the grassroots level of the sport.
