BoyleSports are new title sponsors at Ballybrit
The Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR) column this week is delighted to share the news from Ballybrit that BoyleSports is the new title sponsor for the Saturday of the Galway Races Summer Festival in a new three-year deal. It is another positive boost for Irish racing, demonstrating the sponsorship commitment of one of the country’s leading bookmakers.
With just 10 weeks to go to the 153rd Galway Races, which runs from Monday, July 25th to Sunday 31st, the agreement sees BoyleSports sponsor four races on Saturday, including the feature BoyleSports Handicap Hurdle with a value of €110,000.
BoyleSports is a family-owned firm, established by John Boyle. He opened his first shop in Markethill, Co Armagh in 1982 and now BoyleSports is Ireland’s largest privately-owned bookmaker, boasting over 360 shops across Ireland and Britain, and with an extensive online business, BoyleSports.com
Leon Blanche, head of communications at BoyleSports said: “It’s a real privilege and honour for all of us at BoyleSports to further enhance our commitment to Irish horse racing by signing up as title sponsors on the Saturday of the Galway Racing Festival.
“The meeting is synonymous with horse racing in Ireland, and it’s a very exciting time to be teaming up with them as the traditional throng of racegoers return to descend on Ballybrit. No doubt they’re in for some thrilling contests, and we are looking forward to playing our part in a fabulous festival.”
Commenting on this new sponsorship deal, chief executive of Galway, Michael Moloney, said: “BoyleSports have been a fantastic supporter of Irish racing and we’re delighted to welcome them on-board as the title sponsor for the Saturday of our Festival. They’ve made a huge investment in Irish horse racing over the last few years, and to have them as part of our race week programme is a great addition to the week. We look forward to working with the team on making this a great success for all involved.”
Widely regarded as the highlight of the summer season in Ireland, Galway looks forward to welcoming racegoers back to Ballybrit for an amazing week that offers great horse racing, entertainment, fashion, reunions with friends and family, and an electric atmosphere that continues to draw people from all over the world.
New for 2022 is the welcome addition of ‘The Parade Ring Lounge’ experience for you and your friends, located in a prime position beside the weigh-room. This offers racegoers an elevated racing experience in a superb location beside the parade ring, where you can enjoy the electric and fun atmosphere that the Galway Races is famous for.
Killarney success
In other news, Mayfest in Killarney, which ran from Sunday to Tuesday of this week, was a great success. The crowds on Sunday were bigger than they’ve been in years, and although the weather gods at times failed to play their part, it was a case of well done to all the team at Killarney. Onwards and upwards for more to come in July, August and October at the Kerry track.
As we look ahead to the Guineas meeting at the Curragh this weekend, all signs are positive for another topclass weekend of classic racing combined with all the fun of a festival. The Association of Irish Racecourses is delighted to see its member racecourses across the country engage in exciting promotional campaigns, enjoy good crowds at the key meetings, and agree new sponsorship deals. Well done to the teams on the ground nationwide who make it all happen!
By Leo Powell,
