The value of the Ladbroke Hurdle, to be run at Leopardstown on January 10th, has been increased by £15,000, bringing the overall prize money to £75,000. The increase was announced at a reception in Dublin yesterday which was attended by Jenny Pitman, trainer of last season's winner, Master Tribe, who ended an eight-year winning sequence for home horses. This season the winner will receive £48,000.

Mrs Pitman, who missed last season's race due to illness, received a special presentation.

On the same card, the Pierse Leopardstown Chase will be worth £35,000, £10,000 up on last season. For the first time a 0-102 handicap hurdle worth £15,000 will also be run.