Mr. Vivek Jain, RWITC Ltd chairman, has said that in a historic sponsorship deal, leading breweries giant he United Spirits Ltd has signed an agreement with the RWITC, to sponsor the Indian Derby for the next five years (2013-2017) for a whopping amount of Rs. 28 crore. He was speaking at a curtain raiser, press conference for the upcoming Derby weekend on Thursday.
He also said, “It is the biggest ever sponsorship in Indian racing history for any single racing event. It also emphasises the tremendous faith the UB Group has shown in our Club.”
“The McDowell Indian Derby weekend will kick off on Saturday February 5 and will conclude on Sunday February 6, with the running of the Indian Derby. A record purse of Rs. 2.25 crore is on offer and the winner's purse will be Rs. 1.5 crore.
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The international aspect is not lost either and this year Richard Hughes, a champion jockey from the U.K, and Christophe Lemaire — the Agha Khan's retained jockey will be in action in the Derby. Billy West, Europe's No.1 Freddie Mercury impersonator will showcase his talent. The customed-designed 16,000 sq ft air conditioned hangar will host all the performances and entertainment acts for the McDowell Indian Derby 2011.
“One lucky patron will also win a luxury Mercedes car on Derby day,” said Mr. Jain.
Mr. Amrit Thomas, Executive Vice-President, USL, briefing the press said, “the McDowell Signature Indian Derby is an iconic event and the United Spirits Ltd is proud to be associated with this high profile race for the classy thoroughbreds. With 27 years of our continued association with the Indian Derby, it is perhaps the longest corporate association for an elite sport in India.”
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Mr. Jain also said that “as a bonus, the Indian St. Leger, which has been shifted to Pune from this year will also be sponsored by the UB Group.
“This will add a lot of colour to the Pune season and with a healthy list of sponsored races in Pune,” he added.