Victorian jumps racing has received a welcomed injection of prize money for the upcoming 2023 season, with the Grand Annual Steeplechase and Grand National Steeplechase now worth $400,000 apiece.
Racing Victoria released the 2023 jumps racing program on Tuesday, announcing that $5 million in prize money will be up for grabs across 19 jumps meetings.
That figure marks an increase of $175,000 on the 2022 season, and more than $1 million on 2021.
While the Grand Annual Steeplechase and Grand National Steeplechase both received $50,000 cash injections, the Grand National Hurdle will now be worth $300,000 and the JJ Houlahan Hurdle will jump to $150,000.
Racing Victoria’s Jumps Racing Manager, Josh Grimwood, said the sport is in a healthy position in Victoria, despite all the challenges and outside noise.
“Jumps racing is a unique feature of the Victorian racing calendar and together with the AJRA we are pleased to deliver the 2023 program and prizemoney enhancements which recognise the current strength of jumps racing in our state,” Grimwood said.
“The 2022 jumps racing season was among the safest ever conducted, it enjoyed strong engagement with increased wagering turnover, and saw a record crowd attend the jewel-in-the-crown Warrnambool May Carnival.
“The priority for all involved in Victorian jumps racing continues to be the safety of the sport and importantly we have witnessed continued improvement through ongoing safety initiatives and a robust regulatory framework.
“I would like to thank the AJRA and the participating clubs for their engagement and support in constructing the program and look forward to another terrific season of jumping in 2023.”
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