AXA MIdlands National at Kilbeggan set for RTE 2

Racing enthusiasts will have an opportunity to see some top class National Hunt action live from Kilbeggan on RTE 2 next Friday from 7pm - 8pm with the €75,000 AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National as the feature.

The 2020 race marks the second year that AXA has sponsored the historic Midlands National and Meath trainers Gordon Elliott and Noel Meade are likely to have runners at the Westmeath venue.

RTÉ will feature the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National in their new one-hour evening programme on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player from 7pm to 8pm with Hugh Cahill and guest analysts joining regulars Jane Mangan, Ted Walsh and Ruby Walsh.

Some 42 entries have been received for the AXA Midlands National Handicap Steeplechase with the Naas Leinster Grand National winner Cap York a likely contender for trainer Noel Meade.

Cheltenham Festival winner Early Doors is an entry for trainer Joseph O’Brien while Gordon Elliott has 16 horses with Dinons, a three-time winner over fences last season, one of several strong challengers.

“We are thrilled that RTÉ will broadcast our AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National live on television, which gives the opportunity to all of Kilbeggan’s great supporters to watch our feature race of the year," commented Kilbeggan manager Paddy Dunican..

“AXA Farm Insurance is delighted to continue our support of the Midlands National at Kilbeggan, only a short distance from our Agri Centre in Athlone," commented AXA Ireland Head of Agriculture Christy Doherty.

“We are looking forward to a high class and competitive renewal of the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National on and it is great for Kilbeggan and all National Hunt fans that this highly prestigious contest will be showcased live on RTÉ this year,” commented Horse Racing Ireland’s Director of Racing Jason Morris.

NAVAN

RTE cameras will be at Navan tonight for the popular 7pm - 8pm slot with action on the flat.