The National Thoroughbred Racing Association announced Oct. 29 that Valvoline has signed on to become a national partner with NTRA Advantage, the NTRA's group purchasing program.
As part of the deal, Valvoline—a brand of Ashland Consumer Markets which is a commercial unit of Ashland Inc.—will offer discounts in 2013 on a wide array of products and services to NTRA member tracks, farms, organizations, and individual members in the U.S. and Canada.
"With its longstanding reputation as a leader in oil and lubricants, Valvoline is a perfect fit for our members who rely on NTRA Advantage to deliver significant discounts on quality products for their farm and track operations," said Bryan Pettigrew, senior vice president of NTRA Advantage, in a release. "Whether they are interested in bulk purchases or individual oil changes, NTRA members will have special access to savings next year from a highly respected company committed to the success of the horse industry."
"Valvoline is very excited to become a national partner with NTRA," said John Noal, vice president of commercial & industrial for Ashland Consumer Markets, in a statement. "We look forward to sharing Valvoline's more than 140 years of helping vehicle owners achieve maximum performance and prolonged engine life with motor oils specifically designed to meet the needs of different engine types and driving conditions. Farm vehicles and equipment engines oftentimes handle extreme temperatures and intense operation length which require different motor oil, and we're excited to share our Valvoline family of products with NTRA members."
NTRA members that can realize savings through NTRA Advantage include racetracks, owners, breeders, and trainers. Equine organizations using the Advantage program extend well beyond the realm of Thoroughbred racing. These include the American Quarter Horse Association, the U.S. Equestrian Federation, the U.S. Trotting Association, Harness Tracks of America, and the U.S. Polo Association.