By Matt Markham
The Ashburton Trust has signed back on as the naming rights sponsor of one of harness racing’s biggest days – the Harness Jewels which will this year be held at the Ashburton Racecourse on June 3.
The Ashburton Trotting Club were delighted to be able to announce the news on Friday after a period of uncertainty in which nobody was quite sure what was going to happen.
“We are delighted to have The Trust back on board continuing their association with this iconic event,” Ashburton Trotting Club president Craig Harrison said.
“They’ve been with us since 2009 and to have that continued support is greatly appreciated.”
Held this year for the 11th time, the Harness Jewels began in Ashburton and sees more than 100 of the best Standardbreds from Australia and New Zealand competing for more the $1.5 million in stakes in nine one mile, speed based, races.
With a huge economic impact on the region due to the thousands of people it attracts to the region, the decision by the Ashburton Trust to continue its association is a logical one.
The Ashburton Trotting Club is currently exploring a number of new aspects they are hoping to bring to the occasion, including a revamp of the Friday night function.
Tickets are currently on sale for the day with three package options available.
The first is for the main marquee which is located next to the birdcage with prime viewing and food and beverages available as well as reserved seating and an MC and big screen.
Priced at $220 per person or $2,000 a table, tickets are selling fast for the marquee with only a third still available.
The Parade Ring Marquee which is situation down in the carpark is priced at $100 per person or $1,000 per table and the third option is the Lindauer Luncheon which is priced at $80 per person.
Tickets can be obtained through the Ashburton Racing Centre or via the Harness Racing New Zealand website.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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