The New York Racing Association announced Nov. 16 that Hill 'n' Dale Farm has become sponsor of Aqueduct's $350,000 Cigar Mile (gr. I). Formerly, the NYRA Mile, the 17th running of the Hill 'n' Dale Cigar Mile will be run on Saturday, Nov. 26.

"We are excited to have Hill 'n' Dale aboard as a sponsor of one of New York's signature races," said Bill Nader, NYRA's senior vice-president. "The Hill 'n' Dale Cigar Mile has a young, but rich tradition and is the final grade I of the year in New York. Hill 'n' Dale is also recognized for its respect for tradition and understanding of the importance of major races. This is simply a perfect fit."

The NYRA Mile was first run in 1988, when Forty Niner was the winner. In 1994, it was won by 4-year-old Cigar, who would go on to tie Citation's modern North American record of 16 consecutive victories in 1996. The race was named in his honor in 1997.

"Hill 'n' Dale is proud to be associated with such an important race as the Cigar Mile," said farm president John Sikura. "Great milers make great sires and past participants such as El Corredor   and Distorted Humor   are proving to be the next generation of important sires."

Past Hill 'n' Dale Cigar Mile Winners: