THE annual Berney Bros. Huntsman’s Team Challenge takes place on Sunday, November 18th at the Punchestown Winter Festival. This event raised over €10,000 for the Irish Injured Jockeys in 2017.

Last year’s Berney Bros. Huntsman’s Challenge, was won by the Limerick Harriers. It was strongly supported with 15 hunts taking part along with over 600 supporters. Very special thanks to Tom Berney of Berney Bros. Kilcullen who have once again generously sponsored the event and will be supplying all associated prizes.

The centre piece Berney Bros. Huntsman’s Cross-Country Challenge demonstration will take place over a one-and-a-half-mile section of the famous Punchestown course. An introduction parade of challengers will commence at 10.45am in the parade ring prior to the demonstration at 11.15am.

WORTHY FUNDRAISER

All hunt supporters are encouraged to come along on the day to support their respective packs and in doing so raise funds for a brilliant cause.

There will be a reserved party zone in the Budweiser Sports Bar for all participants and supporters where they can enjoy the seven-race card including the Grade 1 Unibet Morgiana Hurdle. Live music will take place after racing, so bring your dancing shoes!

Event sponsor Tom Berney said: “Further to the success of the event last year, it is great to see it growing and attracting even more support. We see customers from hunting and racing coming through the doors of the shop every day so this is a super opportunity to give something back. Berney Bros. Kilcullen are delighted to be involved in what is the coming together of racing and hunting for a very worthwhile cause.”

Michael Higgins from The Irish Injured Jockeys Fund commented: “We were absolutely delighted with the fundraising efforts by all participating hunts last year. It is a pleasure working with the Punchestown team annually and we really appreciate all the effort that goes on behind the scenes both from participants and organisers.”

There is still limited availability for participating hunts. If you would like to get involved, please contact Janet Creighton on 045-897704 or jcreighton@punchestown.com

The Punchestown Winter Festival takes place on Saturday, November 17th and Sunday, November 18th.