SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Naas Racecourse has launched an equine slant on the “Ice Bucket” challenge to boost awareness and charitable donations for the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund.
The challenge, for those who accept their nomination, is to stand still as two buckets of cold water are thrown directly at them, similar to the cool down of a horse after they come into the parade ring after racing.
Manager Tom Ryan commented: “Naas Racecourse have always supported the Irish Injured Jockey Fund and helped in whatever way we can. Last year we ran The Paddy Power Jockey Olympics and organised our member’s trip to attend the Charity Raceday at Limerick Racecourse, in aid of JT Mc Namara & Jonjo Bright, to help raise funds. This is just another way we believe valuable funds can be raised.”
The county Kildare track have nominated a cross section from the racing industry, including Aidan Mc Garry (Irish Thoroughbred Marketing), Johnny Murtagh (trainer), Kevin O’ Ryan (At The Races), Davy Russell (jockey), Hector Ó’ hEochagáin (presenter), Ted Walsh (racing commentator), Paul Hensey (Manager, Curragh Racecourse), Paddy Power (bookmaker), Niall Cronin (racing journalist), Jack Cantillon (Tinnakill House Stud) and Ger Lyons (trainer).
For those who are nominated and accept the challenge they must video and post a copy to their social media site, paying €20 to the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund. Those who refuse the challenge must donate €100. Donations can be made by logging on to http://www.
The challenge comes ahead of the Jog for Jockeys 5k or 10k run, on Sunday the 24th of August, at the Curragh Racecourse.
