New sponsor for Dante Festival at York Racecourse

The new year has seen the confirmation of a new sponsor for the feature Group 2 sprint at the Dante Festival.

Parfetts, a leading player in the independent retail sector will support the newly named Minster Stakes (formerly the Duke of York).

To complete the refreshed look, the six-furlong contest will offer record prize money of £165,000 (+10%, being £15k).

The Go Local Stores Minster Stakes will be the highest-class contest on the first day of the York season, Wednesday 13 May.

Head of Marketing and Sponsorship James Brennan said, "the mission of Parfetts is to drive success for their retail partners, which is a sentiment that York Racecourse would share, so we are delighted to welcome them. The increase in prize money demonstrates the ongoing commitment to use our commercial partnerships to increase the quality of the sport on the Knavesmire. Parfetts are bringing a number of their business partners to Wednesday 13 May, so we look forward to providing great entertainment both on and off the track for them and all our other racegoers."

Nine-time Champion Trainer at York, Richard Fahey registered an interest in the race for his Group One winner, saying, “The Go Local Stores Minster Stakes would be a race under consideration for Powerful Glory. Obviously, he would be carrying a Group 1 5lb penalty but it is the ideal race for him, as that would be the case for a number of races before the 2026 Group 1s come along.”

Trading Director of Parfetts, Cheyrl Hope, said: “We work very closely with our supplier partners to create growth and success for each other, and to ensure we provide the best possible range, margins and service to our customers. This is a chance for us to get together, celebrate those successes and build even stronger relationships. We are sure it is going to be an excellent day and hope it will be the first of many.”