Yarmouth Racecourse has announced that Click Competitions will sponsor the prestigious East Anglian Derby for the second time, marking the 78th staging of the event. The competition is set to kick off on Wednesday, September 4, with a few notable changes this year.
For the first time in its history, there will be no entry fee for participants. Additionally, the event will feature a 36-runner field, a departure from its previous format which spanned four nights.
The semi-finals are scheduled for Wednesday, September 11, and the final will take place on Wednesday, September 18.
Simon Franklin, the promoter, commented on the changes and the significance of the competition:
"The East Anglian Derby is among a select few competitions granted permission to exceed the 36-entry limit, alongside the Oaks, Produce Stakes, and English Derby. This year, given the abundance of competitions, we decided to cap the entries at 36."
The winner of the East Anglian Derby will receive £15,000, with £3,000 awarded to the runner-up, £2,000 for third place, and £1,000 for each remaining finalist.
"We are optimistic that all supporting opens on the final night will offer £1,000 to the winner," Simon added. "Additionally, both the Sprint and Purse competitions have increased prize money, with further details to be announced."
The sponsorship by Click Competitions underscores their commitment to supporting greyhound racing at Yarmouth and highlights the growing interest in the East Anglian Derby among competitors and fans alike.