Kilbeggan gears up for Midlands National this Friday
The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National will go to post at Kilbeggan Racecourse this Friday, July 14, with the first race off at 5pm.
The race, which was promoted to graded status in 2022, is run over three miles and one furlong and is the flagship sporting and social event at the Midlands racecourse.
One of the highlights of the summer jump season, it has a massive prize fund of €100,000.
Trained by Gordon Elliott and ridden by Jack Kennedy, Hurricane Georgie took the honours in 2022 with Rachael Blackmore riding Popong for Henry de Bromhead taking second place.
The meeting also has a strong supporting card including the sponsored €25,000 Writech Group Handicap Hurdle, which supports the meeting and attracts better quality horses.
The Irish Whiskey Maiden Hurdle of €10,500 is also generously sponsored by Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey. The first official races were held in 1879 in the lands of the Locke family, who developed the famous Pot Still Distillery in Ireland. The Irish Stallion Farms EBF Beginners Steeplechase of €14,000 is also generously sponsored by the Irish EBF.
In racing terms many great horses have raced at Kilbeggan such as Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Koko, dual Aintree Grand National winner Tiger Roll, plus Irish Grand National winner Freewheelin’ Dylan and Henry de Bromhead’s four-time Cheltenham winner Put the Kettle On.
Willie Mullins has raced Group 1 winners at Kilbeggan, like Aramon and Ariel, and he is the leading trainer this year with five winners already. The quality of horses continues to increase to make better quality racing and Friday's meeting promises to be a special occasion for all ages to enjoy.
Kilbeggan Races dates back to 1840 and it represents racing at its best in the heart of Ireland from families to racing experts, there is something for everyone.
Sustainable style
The winner of the Bellamianta Sustainable Style Ladies Competition will take home a prize worth over €5000 from some of Ireland’s top beauty and lifestyle brands, including €1000 cash.
Ladies are encouraged to show off their upcycled outfits, favourite ethical brands, whether it be thrifted, borrowed or handmade, with headwear an optional extra – the focus is on sustainable style!
Fashion is said to be in the eye of the beholder, but this year, judging the event on behalf of Bellamianta, sustainable fashion stylist and Social & Personal magazine columnist Roxanne Parker will have the final say on who will take home the incredible prizes.
General admission €15, with students & OAPs €12. Special discounts available for groups of ten or more. Book online to avail of a 10 per cent discount. Visit www.kilbegganraces.com for ticket discounts and information