Cheltenham today announced that the Tote is to sponsor a revitalised long-distance handicap hurdle on Thomas Pink Gold Cup day next month.
The three-and-a-quarter-mile Tote Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle on November 11th will carry £30,000 in added prize money, up from £12,000 last year.
Tote public relations director Rob Hartnett said: 'Our support for the new Tote Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle allows for a big step up in prize money.
'This will encourage more runners to compete in what should be a very good betting heat. 'We expect that the higher level of prize money will make the Tote Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle appealing to runners from throughout Britain and Ireland.'
The Tote is the biggest sponsor at Cheltenham and has backed the Gold Cup since 1980.
Cheltenham commercial manager Peter McNeile said: 'The Tote`s commitment to boosting prize money and backing competitive racing is exactly in tune with Cheltenham`s philosophy.
'We are delighted that the Tote is extending its sponsorship to the Open meeting for this very significantly enhanced race.'
