EQUINE nutrition business ARKequine will again sponsor two races at Naas this year, while also launching a new awards initiative.

The ARKequine Nursery of Champions Awards will recognise the achievements of mares, fillies and breeders at Naas, across both the National Hunt and flat seasons.

The three ARKequine Nursery of Champions Awards will recognise:

Winning connections will be invited to Naas Racecourse on a raceday for dinner and the official presentation of their award.

Kirsty McCann of ARKequine said: ‘We’re absolutely delighted to continue our sponsorship at Naas Racecourse for a fifth year. Naas has become a hugely important part of the ARKequine calendar, and it genuinely feels like being part of a wider family.

“It’s a superb racecourse, run by an exceptional team, and one that continues to produce quality racing across both codes.

“This year is particularly exciting as we introduce a new awards initiative, and we want to recognise the vital contribution of owner-breeders, who invest so much time, care and dedication into developing their own families and bloodlines. We’re proud to celebrate their achievements alongside those of exceptional racing fillies and mares.”

Naas Racecourse general manager Aidan McGarry said: “Naas has built a strong reputation as a nursery of champions over many years, so this initiative with ARKequine feels like a perfect fit. These awards recognise the importance of mares, fillies and breeders, and we’re proud to help shine a light on their contribution to the sport.”