Dennis Smith, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at ISP Finance Services Limited (ISP), sponsors of the 90th running of the Jamaica St Leger, is beaming with satisfaction after what he says was a very successful promotional campaign.

ISP was sponsoring the St Leger for the second consecutive year. For the 2016 renewal ISP increased their sponsorship to $1.35 million, inclusive of $750,000 to the $3.5-million purse of the St Leger and $50,000 going to the remaining 12 races on the programme and also funds going towards promotions.

“It was really great; everything leading up to the big day of the St Leger was fantastic.

“As far as we at ISP are concerned, the promotional campaign by the entire media fraternity was really great. We were happy and very importantly, we were satisfied,” Smith said.

Racing professionals and racing fans were engaged in numerous activities hosted by ISP on St Leger Day. These included purses being paid out after the running of each race.

Fifteen back-to-school scholarship grants of $10,000 each were awarded to children or family members of horsemen.

Racing fans at Caymanas Park were also in the promotional mix, as over $300,000 was given away to patrons who answered trivia questions about ISP and the St Leger.

“The day itself was good, as we got to interact with the patrons and share with them information about our products.

“From our understanding, the turnout was far better than last year and we are glad for that,” Smith said.

Commenting on the running of the St Leger, Smith said: “It would have been great if it was a closer finish like a photo finish or so, but the excitement that I saw created by the race was simply great. I think the fans were very happy with it, and as long as everybody is happy, we are happy.”

When asked if he would sponsor the event next year, without hesitation Smith said: “Definitely will be back next year. Everything went as planned and everything turned out great.”

— Ruddy Allen