Every year, Thirsk Racecourse pulls in racing fans from all over for one key event – the Thirsk Hunt Cup. It’s a big deal, especially in the north. Now, for 2025, there’s an exciting twist. Ladbrokes, one of the UK’s most famous betting brands, is stepping in as the main sponsor.
That’s a big move for a race that’s already been running since 1859! If you’re someone who loves a day at the races or just a flutter on the horses, here’s why this matters – and why next year’s Cup might be one to mark on your calendar.
What is the Thirsk Hunt Cup, anyway?
Okay, so picture this: a buzzing racecourse in North Yorkshire, a mile-long flat race, £50,000 up for grabs, and a crowd full of passionate fans. That’s the Thirsk Hunt Cup in a nutshell. It’s the star race on what’s now called Ladbrokes Thirsk Hunt Cup Day, happening Saturday, May 3, 2025.
This isn’t just some filler race on a random weekend. It’s Thirsk’s crown jewel – the kind of race that kicks off the flat season with a bang, especially up north. Over the past decade, local trainers have pretty much had it on lockdown. Apart from Mick Channon (and his horse STORTING in 2021), the north has kept it close to home. In other words, southern hopefuls, you’ve got your work cut out!
Why Ladbrokes getting involved is a big deal
Let’s talk about Ladbrokes. You’ve seen the name – on high streets, apps, even race banners. With more than 1,500 betting shops and a booming online presence, they’re kind of a big deal in the betting world. But here’s what’s cool: they’re not just about taking bets. They’ve been backing horse racing for decades.
Their current sponsorships read like a who’s who of racing events:
- Ladbrokes Christmas Festival at Kempton Park
- Ladbrokes Chester Cup
- Ladbrokes Chase at the Dublin Racing Festival
Oh, and they also sponsor Dan Skelton, one of the top names in jump racing. He’s gunning for his first trainers’ title and even writes a blog about it each week. So yeah, they’re pretty plugged in.
So when Simon Clare, PR Director at Ladbrokes, says they’re “excited to sponsor such an iconic and prestigious race,” it’s not just fluff. This is a strategic move – they’re doubling down on their commitment to the sport.
Thirsk’s racing history still hits hard
Let’s not forget the legacy. The Thirsk Hunt Cup has been going strong since 1859. That’s older than cars, lightbulbs, and even sliced bread. And it’s still pulling in top talent.
One standout moment? Farhh’s six-length win in 2012. After that, the horse went on to win big at Newbury’s Lockinge Stakes and Ascot’s Champion Stakes. Basically, winning at Thirsk can be a launchpad.
And more recently, in 2024, it was Titan Rock who took the crown – a win that had plenty of racing fans buzzing.
What’s coming in 2025?
The 2025 Ladbrokes Thirsk Hunt Cup is shaping up to be a proper clash. The £50,000 prize means top-level talent is guaranteed. And with Ladbrokes now backing the event (plus its supporting programme), things just got even more serious.
James Sanderson, Chief Executive at Thirsk, put it nicely: this race is “an early Flat season highlight in the North,” and having Ladbrokes on board adds real weight.
But can someone from the south finally snatch the title again? Or will northern trainers keep their winning streak alive? Place your bets.
Quick recap: Why this matters
- Ladbrokes is now the official sponsor of the 2025 Thirsk Hunt Cup.
- The race takes place on Saturday, 3 May 2025.
- It’s a £50,000 handicap and a major Flat season event.
- Farhh (2012 winner) went on to scoop two Group 1 races.
- Titan Rock won it in 2024.
- The event continues to spotlight northern racing talent.
So whether you’re all about the form, just enjoy the buzz of race day, or love a cheeky bet with your mates, this year’s Cup is worth watching. And who knows – maybe you’ll spot the next Farhh before they hit the big leagues.
