Dubai: Having forged a long and successful relationship with Newbury Racecourse in the UK, Dubai Duty Free has expanded its commitment to the West Berkshire track through a three-year renewal in a mutually beneficial agreement.
Friday’s announcement is fitting timing for the multi award-winning Airport retailer whose support of the two-day meeting marked the conclusion of their European sponsorship portfolio for 2013.
Colm McLoughlin, executive vice chairman of Dubai Duty Free, and Newbury’s managing director Stephen Higgins formalised the agreement saying they were pleased to continue and expand the relationship.
McLoughlin said: “We’ve developed a very close working relationship with the team at Newbury. As our business has evolved, so have our sponsorship and hospitality requirements which have been met and in many cases exceeded by the racecourse.”
Higgins added: “Dubai Duty Free is renowned for its sporting excellence around the world and we are delighted and honoured that they wish to remain a sponsor here for the next three years. We will continue to work with them to broaden the reach of their brand.”
New building
Newbury revealed it has commenced a major building development designed to ensure the racecourse stays in the top division of British horseracing venues.
Meanwhile, Godolphin’s Tawhid won the Listed Dubai Duty Free Cup on Friday as Brazilian jockey Silvestre de Sousa recorded his 100th victory for the stable. Stable companions Firebeam (Mickael Barzalona) and Free Wheeling (James Doyle) finished third and fourth.
Saeed Bin Surour said: “The ground was the key. He has been running well all season without winning. But now, he has got the soft ground that he won the Horris Hill on here last year. He showed what he is capable of.”
Charlie Appleby, who has made a good start to his tenure as the second Godolphin handler, saddled Pinzolo to win the Haynes, Hanson & Clark Conditions Stakes. “Pinzolo is a very nice horse for next year,” he said. “He is still immature mentally, but there’s no question he has ability.”
Earlier, the Richard Fahey-trained Tales Of Grimm won the Dubai Duty Free Conditions Stakes while Sula Two landed the Dubai Duty Free Finest Surprise Handicap for West Country-based Ron Hodges.
Racecourse Newbury attracted one of its best crowds of the season.
