Australian betting operator Tabcorp has extended its sponsorship deal with the Australian Trainers Association, the representative organisation for the country’s horse trainers.

Racing at Flemington, Melbourne Source: flemington.com.au

The new agreement will see Tabcorp partner with the ATA on a number of new race-day initiatives in 2016, including supporting this weekend’s TAB/ATA Celebrate Women Trainers Handicap at Flemington racecourse in Melbourne.

The partnership also includes sponsorship of the Australian Trainers’ Trust, including a significant donation from Tabcorp. The bookmaker will continue to be the ATA’s exclusive sponsor and official wagering partner and have a major presence on all ATA communication channels.

Tabcorp’s Craig Nugent said: “This is the third year of our partnership with the ATA. We’re proud to support racing industry participants.

“Our first sponsorship initiative under the new agreement is the TAB/ATA Celebrate Women Trainers Handicap at Flemington this Saturday. This closely aligns with Tabcorp’s own gender diversity values and is a great fit.”

Andrew Nicholl, chief executive of the ATA, added: “As Australia’s largest and most important wagering organisation, Tabcorp’s returns to the racing industry underpin the funding for everything from prize money for trainers, owners and jockeys, to racing infrastructure, integrity, administration and all of racing’s operations.

“Tabcorp’s role should not be taken for granted. We look forward to working together to drive benefit for our members, Tabcorp and the racing industry in general,” said Nicholl.