Turfway Park announced Monday that Vinery will be the title sponsor for the
track’s premier race for three-year-olds beginning next spring. Established in
1972 as the Spiral S., the race has continually attracted top fields and is a
significant prep for the Kentucky Derby (G1). The initial contract will run five
years, with renewal considered annually after that time.
Beginning with the 40th running on March 26, 2011, the race will be the
Vinery Racing Spiral S. (G2).
“Vinery is committed to supporting racing, and we are especially pleased to
be associated with a race that is a major fixture in the three-year-old
division,” farm president Tom Ludt said.
With farms in Kentucky, Florida, and New York, Vinery is a full service
Thoroughbred operation offering boarding, sales representation and preparation,
breaking, bloodstock services, and rehabilitation and layups as well as racing
partnerships.
“Turfway was a pioneer in Thoroughbred race sponsorship, and the Spiral S.
has had strong sponsorship support since 1982,” Turfway Park president Robert N.
Elliston said. “We have appreciated all the contributions to this race’s success
and are proud to move forward with Vinery as we incorporate fresh ideas into
this long tradition.”
Most recently sponsored by Lane’s End, the Turfway race carries a $500,000
purse, virtually guaranteeing the winner a spot in the starting gate for the
Kentucky Derby.