Racing: Deadline for Gold Cup runners

PRIZE money for the 1994 Cheltenham Festival will be up more than 11 per cent on last year's total figure of pounds 1,375,000. Sponsors will contribute a record pounds 503,000, an increase of pounds 66,000 on 1993.

Today is the final day for entries for the Gold Cup and Queen Mother Champion Chase. Cheltenham racecourse yesterday reminded owners and trainers not to miss the new deadline.

The races are among nine championship events at the three-day Festival from 15-17 March. The second new entry date is 19 January, for the Champion Hurdle and the Stayers Hurdle.