Martin Hassett enjoyed a great 2023 at the Curragh and the Killenaule restricted trainer has crowned the year by gaining the €1,000 prize for winning the QuinnBet Handicap Series at headquarters.

The victory of Secret Magician ridden by Hassett’s nephew Wayne, on August 12 played a key part in winning the three-race series which will be doubled in size next year.

Hassett said: “We are thrilled to have won the series and would like to extend our thanks to QuinnBet.

“It’s a great initiative and we will certainly be targeting the series next year. We have a small family run operation here and it has given the team a great boost.”

Niall McPartland, Head of Commercial & Sponsorship with QuinnBet said: “Congratulations to Martin and all the team at Hassett Racing. We were delighted with the success of the series in its first year, the positive feedback it has received and also the number of trainers who competed across the three-race handicap series.

“We are proud to be associated with The Curragh Racecourse and look forward to renewing the partnership by extending the sponsorship into the 2024 flat racing season. It has been a great opportunity to raise the profile of our brand across the Irish acing scene whilst showing our support to the industry.”

Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager at The Curragh commented: “The Curragh is delighted to continue the partnership with Quinnbet. The initiative is a great addition, we are very grateful for the support and we look forward to welcoming them back to The Curragh for 2024.”

Following a successful start to the Quinnbet three-race handicap series at The Curragh Racecourse this season, it has been announced that the partnership will be extended for a second year. With a similar format the series will see an increase from three to six races at The Curragh in 2024.

Hassett enjoyed a career highlight on Irish Derby day at the Curragh this year when Harry’s Hill landed the €100,000 Dubai Duty Free Rockingham Handicap.