Major Limerick fund-raiser for Injured Jockeys

Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has approved a request from Limerick Racecourse to stage an additional fixture on Monday 14th October 2013, the entire proceeds of which will be donated to the Jockeys Emergency Fund.

Organisers are aiming to raise a significant sum of money at the charity raceday, which will form part of a two-day meeting, with Limerick’s Munster National being staged the previous day, Sunday 13th October.

Limerick will donate all its media rights and attendance income from the day to the Jockeys Emergency Fund, while HRI will donate all the entry fees which are received for the meeting and has agreed that all sponsorship income secured for the races will be paid to the charity.

Many other sectors of the industry have already indicated a willingness to make a significant contribution, and a fundraising lunch and auction will also take place in Limerick Racecourse’s panoramic restaurant.

Russell Ferris, Manager of Limerick Racecourse said: “It is hoped that a very significant amount of money can be raised for the Jockeys Emergency Fund to support the rehabilitation efforts for both JT McNamara and Jonjo Bright.

"There is a fantastic camaraderie within the horse racing fraternity and recent events have once again brought this bond to the fore. As Limerick Racecourse is JT’s local track, with many of his relations and closest friends plying their trade here on a regular basis, we are most grateful to HRI for granting us this fixture, providing the opportunity to stage this fundraising event here at Greenmount.

"Further details about the day will be released in the forthcoming weeks, and we would welcome any ideas that people may have to increase funds from the day.”

Brian Kavanagh, HRI Chief Executive said: “Horse Racing Ireland applauds this initiative by Limerick Racecourse, and I would encourage everyone in the wider racing, breeding and point-to-point community to get behind it.

"Recent serious injuries suffered by Limerick jockey JT McNamara and Northern Ireland jockey Jonjo Bright have highlighted the vital need for the Jockeys Emergency Fund.

"There is no National Hunt racing in Britain on the selected date of Monday 14th October, and I know that Limerick plan to enlist the support of British trainers and riders for this fund-raiser.”