Racing: Novice bonus

A FURTHER incentive to take part in the third of the spring festivals, at Punchestown from 27 to 29 April, came yesterday when a pounds 250,000 bonus, backed by Heineken, was announced for horses winning novice chases there as well as at Cheltenham and Aintree. The prize can be scooped by winning the Arkle or Sun Alliance chases at Cheltenham, then the Mumm Mildmay or Maghull novice chases at Liverpool, followed by the Heineken Gold Cup at Punchestown.