FBD Sponsors Orby Stakes

FBD Hotels & Resorts announced its sponsorship of the Orby Stakes at The Curragh on Saturday 27th May as David Kelly, CEO, FBD Hotels & Resorts, joined Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager at The Curragh, in Orby’s Bistro at the racecourse.

David Kelly, CEO, FBD Hotels & Resorts, is pictured with Evan Arkwright, Racing and Sponsorship Manager at The Curragh, and Downforce, who is owned and trained by Willie McCreery, on The Curragh.

The Orby Stakes commemorates Orby, the first Irish-trained horse to win both the Irish Derby and the Epsom Derby in 1907, who was owned by Richard “Boss” Croker. Irish thoroughbreds three years of age and older will compete in the listed race over 12 furlongs, with a total prize money of €40,000. The FBD Hotels & Resorts Orby Stakes will be part of a summer of racing at The Curragh, taking place at 15.05 on Day 2 of the Tattersalls Irish Guineas Festival.

Commenting on the sponsorship, David Kelly, CEO, FBD Hotels & Resorts, said:

“Since taking over the neighbouring Killashee Hotel outside Naas in 2022, having previously purchased another nearby hotel, The Heritage in Killenard, Co Laois, in 2019, we are delighted to have this opportunity to come on board and partner with The Curragh and support this renowned race. Orby created a great legacy as a horse, and we hope that this sponsorship builds over the coming years to become equally iconic.”

FBD Hotels & Resorts is owned by farmer-owned investment company, Farmer Business Developments Plc. Headquartered in Ireland, FBD Hotels & Resorts employs about 1,100 people across its hotel and resort portfolio.