Spiral Stakes gains sponsor and money

By: SPORTS NETWORK

Florence, KY (Sports Network) - A Cincinnati casino has stepped forward as the title sponsor of Turfway Park's premier stakes race with additional purse money included.

Horseshoe Cincinnati, which will open in downtown Cincinnati in March, will be the title sponsor of the 42nd Spiral Stakes on Saturday, March 23. With the sponsorship comes an additional $50,000 to bring the Kentucky Derby prep's purse to $550,000.

"We are excited to have one of the country's premier entertainment brands sponsor our most important race," said Chip Bach, general manager of Turfway Park. "As Northern Kentuckians and Southwestern Ohioans will soon experience, Horseshoe is known for bringing a first class experience to its customers, and we know that Horseshoe's involvement will elevate the Spiral Stakes experience for our race fans and horsemen as well."

Previously sponsored by Jim Beam and Vinery Racing, the Spiral Stakes has been won the last two years by Team Valor-owned horses Animal Kingdom and Went the Day Well. Animal Kingdom went on to win the 2011 Run for the Roses as did 1992 Spiral Stakes winner Lil E. Tee.

Horseshoe Cincinnati and Turfway Park are sister-properties.