GAIN Equine Nutrition’s long-standing support of The Curragh Racecourse continues to shape the pathway for Ireland’s next generation of two-year-old talent, with the 2026 season building on a partnership in place since 2012.
This year’s sponsorship was officially launched at the racing yard of leading trainer Jessica Harrington, a valued customer of GAIN Equine Nutrition, highlighting the brand’s close connection with those at the heart of Irish racing.
The 2026 sponsorship features two key juvenile contests at The Curragh:
- GAIN Maiden for Fillies – Sunday, 28th June, on Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Day. This €40,000 race provides a valuable platform for emerging fillies on one of the most prestigious fixtures in the Irish flat racing calendar.
- GAIN Railway Stakes (Group 2) – Saturday, 18th July, during Juddmonte Irish Oaks weekend. Established in 1851, the Railway Stakes is one of Ireland’s most historic juvenile races and a recognised stepping stone to top-level success. The Railway Stakes continues to attract top-class performers, with many past winners progressing to Group 1 honours.
Joanne Hurley, Head of Equine at GAIN Equine Nutrition, said sponsorships like this play an important role in supporting performance and progression at the top end of Irish racing:
“Our association with The Curragh, particularly the Railway Stakes, is something we are very proud of. The race has a proven track record of producing elite two-year-olds and plays an important role within the wider bloodstock industry. We look forward to another strong season of racing in partnership with The Curragh.”
Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager at The Curragh, added:
“We are proud to continue our partnership with GAIN Equine Nutrition, who have been tremendous supporters of The Curragh and Irish racing. Their continued backing of the Railway Stakes, alongside the sponsorship of a valuable juvenile contest on Irish Derby Day, reflects a shared commitment to excellence and the development of future champions.”
Trainer Jessica Harrington also highlighted the importance of such support to the industry:
“Winning at The Curragh is hugely important from a trainer’s perspective. It’s a premier racecourse and a true showcase for Irish racing. It’s very positive to see a brand like GAIN supporting races not just at The Curragh, but across the country – that level of backing is vital and greatly appreciated.”
The partnership continues to play an important role in supporting the quality and depth of Ireland’s juvenile racing programme.
For further information, please contact:
Lisa Dunphy, Senior Marketing Manager – Agri, Tirlán
lisdunphy@tirlan.ie | 083 182 3337
Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager, The Curragh
eark@curragh.ie | 087 2240890