The initiative, organised by Flutter’s Sky Betting & Gaming, in partnership with York Racecourse, has seen 22 organisations randomly matched to a horse that ran in this year’s Ebor Handicap.
While the race took place last weekend, Sky Betting & Gaming has published a statement reflecting on the charitable endeavour, and revealing the organisations who were shortlisted.
The group matched to the winning mount was slated to receive a £20,000 ($23,530) donation, it said, while the organisations whose corresponding horses came in second and third are to be given £5,000 and £2,000 respectively.
Organisations whose matched horses didn’t place in the top three will still receive a £1,000 donation. The 22 shortlisted groups include Active Independence, Leeds Society for Deaf & Blind People, St Leonard’s Hospice and Dementia Dreammakers Sheffield, among many others.
The chosen charities were whittled down from over 150 entries, representing a range of groups across Yorkshire, the company’s statement read.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s handicap, Michael Afflick, Director of Brand, Creative and Sponsorship at Sky Betting & Gaming, said: “With so many fantastic entries, it was incredibly difficult to select just 22 of these wonderful causes.
“All were incredibly worthwhile, and we can’t wait to see which horse races to victory in aid of their matched charity, foundation or community group. We’re set for an exciting weekend at York Racecourse.”
James Brennan, Head of Marketing and Sponsorship at York Racecourse, expressed a similar sentiment, adding: “The initiative is a brilliant way to connect with the wider community and shine a light on the incredible work that happens across the county.”
