AS THE annual curtain-raiser to the Cheltenham Festival, Stratford Racecourse is proud to announce that Betfair has generously sponsored the first meeting of 2006.

The gates open at 12 noon on Monday, March 13 with the sounds of the Milestone Band playing traditional 'Irish Music'; along with Guinness on tap making the course inviting for everyone.

The first race is The betfairpoker.com four-year old Novices' Hurdle worth £12,000 and off at 2.10pm.

The afternoon's highlight is The betfair.com Irish Day Handicap Steeple Chase for the Garrick Jubilee Challenge Cup worth £20,000.

Admission starts at only £7 for the Centre Course, £13 for Tattersalls and £17 for the Club Enclosure.