Grand National JockeysA rising tide in sponsorship has come good again for the biggest horse race in the Irish calendar with news that Boylesports is to extend its sponsorship of the Irish Grand National until 2016 and that the prize money for next year’s race will climb 10% to €275,000.

“We are really excited at the extension of our fabulous partnership with Boylesports who are helping us to really drive the Easter Festival in popularity,” said Fairyhouse general manager Peter Roe.

“It is far and away the most watched race of the year and draws a huge crowd every Easter Monday from Dublin and across the country.”

“The extra boost from having Boylesports commit to an extended partnership, and the rise in prize money is great for the race, great for Firehouse and great for all those who come racing with us.”

“With the sponsorship extension of the Boylesports IGN and the Irish Greyhound Derby, Boylesports are privileged to be associated with the two most prestigious and valuable events in the Irish sporting calendar,” added Boylesports chief executive, John Boyle.