The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National at Kilbeggan Racecourse has been upgraded to Grade B status.

The race, over three miles and one furlong, will also run with an increased prize fund of €100,000, and is the centrepiece of Kilbeggan Races’ fixture list and the summer jumps season.

Managing Director of Kilbeggan Races, Paddy Dunican said: “We are delighted that the AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National race has been upgraded to a Grade B race.

"We are excited to see some top-quality runners due to the improved status and Increased prize money on offer. The aim has always been to have a graded race at Kilbeggan, so it’s great to see our vision come to fruition on Friday, July 8.”

AXA head of agriculture, Christy Doherty commented: “AXA Farm Insurance is delighted to continue sponsorship of the Midlands National for the fourth year.

Jason Morris, Horse Racing Ireland’s director of racing and strategic projects, added: “The AXA Farm Insurance Midlands National race has become a real feature of the summer National Hunt programme and Horse Racing Ireland is delighted that the quality of runners in recent years has justified the race’s promotion to a Grade B race, giving Kilbeggan a well-deserved first Black Type race.”

The meeting also hosts a strong supporting card including the €25,000 Writech Group Handicap Hurdle.

Kilbeggan leads the way in staging Ireland's First Sustainable Style Racing Event, with the Bellamianta Sustainable Style Ladies Competition including a prize worth €5,000.

The first race is at 5:20p.m on Friday, July 8.