The West Country’s lauded Somerset National, which is run on Thursday, January 17, has a new sponsor with the race now run in the name of Healthy Pets.
The company, which provides insurance for pet owners, was founded in 1996 by Mark Effenberg, who remains at the helm of the pet-loving business.
Mark, who has always been a pet owner, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring at Wincanton Racecourse, and in particular the Somerset National which is a race that attracts some much loved horses.
“At Healthy Pets we truly understand that dogs and cats are members of the family, and that there’s a unique bond, which is very similar in racing where horses really forge a place in the hearts of the race loving public, the people who care for them, and of course their owners. It’s a fit that works for us and we are very much looking forward to our day out at the races.”
Wincanton’s general manager Huw Williams said: “The Somerset National has been run for many years, giving seasoned chasers who excel at long distances the chance to claim a notable prize. It’s a great fit and we are delighted about our association with Healthy Pets.”
There have been some fabulous horses who have won the Healthy Pets Somerset National, including Jess Westwood’s ever popular Monkerty Tunkerty who galloped to success in 2014. He was retired after running in the 2016 Somerset National to pursue a career in the showring, eventing and showjumping. In December, the 15-year-old was crowned The Jockey Club-sponsored Retraining of Racehorses Horse of the Year for 2018.
For further information visit www.wincantonracecourse.co.uk.
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