3M Corporation has entered into a deal to sponsor Mucho Macho Man ’s “Run for the Roses” in the May 7 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I).
Terms of the sponsorship and details of exactly how 3M will be promoted under the agreement were not disclosed.
Winner of the Risen Star Stakes (gr. II) before finishing third in the Louisiana Derby (gr. II), Much Macho Man is a son of Macho Uno trained by Kathy Ritvo for Reeves Thoroughbred Racing and Dream Team One Racing Stable.
Lisa Underwood, executive director of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, said the plan is to advertise 3M on the jockey's pants and possibly on the front of the neck area (on a turtleneck or other undergarment). Under KHRC regulations, the Mucho Macho Man connections will need permission from the stewards, the track, and jockey in order to have the logo displayed on the jockeys’ garments.
“This is a great opportunity to promote the 3M brand and 3M products on one of the world’s biggest and most historic stages,” Jeff Lavers, 3M’s vice president of marketing, sales, and corporate communications said in a statement. The Triple Crown represents quality of the highest level so it’s an ideal fit for our company.”
“As a former 3M employee myself, I know first-hand what kind of company it is with its tremendous people and products of the highest quality,” said Patti Reeves, who operates Reeves Thoroughbred Racing with her husband, Dean.
Among the many products manufactured by 3M, a diversified company based in St. Paul, Minn., are a broad spectrum of animal bandaging tapes.