FRIDAY, July 10th will see the return of the €75,000 AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National at Kilbeggan, one of the most significant chases in the summer racing calendar. The 2020 renewal marks the second year AXA, one of Ireland’s largest and oldest insurance companies, has sponsored the race. The national broadcaster will feature in their one-hour evening programme on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player.

Forty-two entries have been received for the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National, with the Naas Leinster Grand National winner Cap York a likely contender for Noel Meade. Cheltenham Festival winner Early Doors is an interesting entry for Joseph O’Brien, while Gordon Elliott has entered 16 horses. Dinons, a three-time winner over fences last season, is one of several strong challengers for the trainer. Henry De Bromhead’s entry Judgement Day has won twice in Kilbeggan.