Energumene (Paul Townend) winning 12 months ago© Photo Healy Racing
Leopardstown Racecourse today announced that Patrick Ward & Company have renewed their support of the Grade 1 Irish Arkle Novice Chase on day one of the Dublin Racing Festival, Saturday February 5.
The Dublin based solicitors have a long association with Leopardstown and the Irish Arkle, the Ward family name having graced the Irish Arkle for the first time in 2010.
Willie Mullins has won the race in the past with the likes of Un De Sceaux, Douvan and 12 months ago with Energumene and the champion trainer looks sure to mount a strong challenge again.
The Closutton maestro is responsible for half of the ten entries including Ferny Hollow, Blue Lord, Haut Un Couleurs and Saint Sam, while Gordon Eliiott's Riviere D'etel is another interesting entry.
The continuation of this familiar sponsorship is welcomed by Patrick Ward, Principal of Patrick Ward & Company Solicitors who commented: “My family and I are delighted to continue the long association that we have had with the Irish Arkle Novice Chase. We have very fond memories of many great racing days over all the years the late Frank sponsored the race. The racing was always followed by great fun and a sing song till we wore our welcome out!”
Tim Husbands CEO of Leopardstown said: “We are delighted that Patrick is to continue this partnership with Leopardstown. The Ward family have sponsored the Irish Arkle for a number of years and have been part of and supported the Dublin Racing Festival since its inception.
"The commitment of the Ward family to racing is reflected through the wider Irish racing industry and Patrick’s late father, Frank, was a familiar face at many racetracks around the country. He is greatly missed but it is wonderful that Patrick is continuing the tradition.
"The Patrick Ward & Company Irish Arkle Novice Chase has attracted a superb entry, from all the leading yards and if the recent performance of last year’s winner of the race, Energumene, is anything to go by, this will be another exciting renewal!"
