Racing: Electrical company Toshiba have stepped in to fill the void after AIG withdrew their sponsorship of the Champion Hurdle. The Grade 1 feature race will now be known as the Toshiba Irish Champion Hurdle.
Today's announcement was made by Leopardstown along with TOS Ireland who distribute Toshiba products in this country.
The race will be run at Leopardstown on January 25th, 2009 with a prize fund of €120,000.
Sizing Europe won this year's race ahead of previous winner Hardy Eustace and Al Eile.
"We have been strong supporters of horse racing in Ireland for many years now and it gives me great pleasure to be associated with this high profile Grade I race in 2009," said Martin O'Sullivan, TOS managing director.
"Toshiba is a very welcome sponsor for this prestigious race which always attracts the top hurdlers in training," added Tom Burke, Leopardstown manager.
"I would like to pay special tribute to AIG Ireland and particularly managing director Seán Hehir for supporting this race for16 years and helping to make it one of the highlights of the National Hunt Season."