A whopping $10.6 million in prize money is being offered for the prestigious Digicel Derby Day programme at Caymanas Park on Saturday, June 2.

This was disclosed by Maurice Bryan, sponsorship and promotions manager of Digicel at last Tuesday's launch on the lawns of Caymanas Park.

Bryan pointed out that the day will feature four major sponsored races, including the derby which Digicel will be sponsoring for the third consecutive year.

The derby, which was first run at Knutsford Park in 1921 and won by BUCK DANCER, offers a total purse of $4.25 million for this the 87th running over a distance of 2400 metres. Digicel's contribution to the purse is $1.25 million.

The communications giant will also sponsor the seventh running of the Digicel Irish Jamaican Stakes (grade one) over 1300 metres with a total purse of $1.3 million, as well as the third running of the Facey Sprint (grade three) overnight allowance race over 1200 metres with a purse of $800,000 and the third running of the Digicel Juvenile Stakes for native bred two-year-olds over 600 metres (straight) with a purse of $750,000.

If that wasn't enough Digicel, in a wonderful gesture has donated $100,000 to the purses of each of the eight remaining races on the programme. In all, the company's contribution to purses for the day amounts to $3.6 million, not to mention additional funds to facilitate specially invited guests under the infield tent. This year's event will be held under the theme 'New York, New York'.

Describing the derby "as a true test of speed and stamina", Miller said this year promises to be a clash of some very talented horses and urged racing fans to come to Caymanas Park in their thousands.

On display was the new Digicel Derby Trophy which was imported from South Africa. According to CTL's executive manager for marketing, Millicent Lynch, the magnificent silver-plated cup was purchased for close to $200,000. It will be presented to the winning owner, along with the Sir John Mordecai Trophy in honour of the first chairman of the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC).

Lynch said the popular Kiddies Stables will be activated at Caymanas Park on the day, while the first 1,000 patrons will be given $100 Digicel credit, a free bet along with a free gift.

Entertainment will be provided by VybzKartel and popular Digicel Rising Stars Nikiesha Barnes and Christopher Martin, among others.

- O.C.