(Edited press release)
The New York Racing Association and UPS have announced a partnership agreement for the Belmont Park Spring race meeting, including the June 7 Belmont Stakes (gr. I). The deal is being made in association with ABC Regional Sports Sales.
Every race for the remainder of the Belmont Park Spring race meeting, including the Belmont Stakes, will be stamped with the UPS logo. The Belmont Park starting gate and stretch drive will be adorned with trademark UPS signage.
It was also announced that the UPS logo would accompany Big Brown on both his saddle cloth and the jacket of his outrider in the Belmont.
Charlie Hayward, president and chief executive officer of NYRA said, “UPS is a globally-respected and admired company. We are thrilled to launch what will be a very successful partnership. This alliance is a natural fit for two companies that are dedicated to delivering world-class products and services.”
“UPS has a history of supporting racing venues of all kinds,” said Ron Rogowski, UPS' director of sponsorship. “As sponsor of Big Brown’s jockey, Kent Desormeaux, UPS has enjoyed some tremendous associations. This partnership is an extension of the company's commitment to horse racing; we look forward to cultivating a mutually beneficial association.”
John Watkins, president of ABC National Television Sales, which encompasses ABC Regional Sports Sales, added: “As the eyes of sports fans worldwide focus on the 2008 Belmont Stakes this Saturday and racing fans continue to cheer the action at Belmont Park during the spring racing season, UPS has found a powerful way to extend its advertising and brand reach through NYRA.”