Chester have announced a new link with the New York Racing Association (NYRA) which will create a pathway from the track’s major races in May to key contests in America.

The new agreement formally connects the Boodles May meeting, which runs from May 6-8 inclusive, with prestigious races run at Saratoga.

This year’s winner of the Ladbrokes Ormonde Stakes will receive an automatic entry into the Belmont Gold Cup, worth $250,000. The race has been staged at Saratoga since 2024 while Belmont Park is being redeveloped.

The Belmont Gold Cup, which has been won by European runners in six of the last eight runnings, has served as a ‘Golden Ticket’ qualifier for the Melbourne Cup in each of the last two years.

The Huxley Stakes will secure a place in the $1million Manhattan Stakes, which was won by Charlie Appleby’s Measured Time in 2024.

Chester racing director Patrick Chesters said “We’re delighted to be partnering with the New York Racing Association on this exciting new initiative. Bringing together two of the most historic venues in racing creates a fantastic opportunity to strengthen international connections within racing and showcase the quality of our racing programme at Chester.

“The Ladbrokes Ormonde Stakes and the Huxley Stakes have long been important middle-distance contests in the early part of the season and this partnership enhances their international significance.

“To offer guaranteed entry into races of the calibre of the Belmont Gold Cup and the Manhattan Stakes, with the added incentive of travel support, gives owners and trainers a very real and attractive opportunity to campaign horses on the global stage.

“We will certainly be hoping to tempt some great horses to the Roodee who might have a future trip to America on their radars.”

Andrew Offerman, NYRA senior vice president of racing and operations, said: “This is an exciting partnership connecting two of the sport’s most revered and historic venues, which can only expand interest in these important races. We appreciate the partnership with Chester Racecourse and look forward to a fantastic summer at Saratoga.”