30 June 2006

The UK facing online casino and poker operator, 32Red Plc , who have recently signed a six figure deal with Aston Villa to be their official shirt sponsor for the next two seasons, have become the new sponsor of the Football Furlong race day at Haydock Park which takes place on Sunday 16 July 2006.

Now in its third year, Football Furlong is a unique day of racing which sees jockeys wear the representative colours of the 20 Premiership clubs rather than the traditional silks of the owners of the horses they are riding.

There are six races with 10 horses in each with each horse being represented by a Premiership football club – therefore each Club will have three riders. Points are awarded according to finishing positions with 10 points for 1st, 9 points for 2nd etc with the winner taking home the 32Red.com Football Furlong Trophy.

Ed Ware, CEO of 32Red Plc, commented: ‘The Football Furlong day at Haydock Park provides us with a perfect match in terms of our horse racing and football sponsorships. It would be very apt if one of the Aston Villa mascots could win the Mascot race.’

Merrick Haydon, the founder of Football Furlong said, “We are delighted to have signed 32Red as the event’s title sponsor, and look forward to working closely with the team on this unique day of racing.” 

As well as the six race card there will be a Soccer Academy as well as autograph signing sessions. The highlight of the entertainment will be ‘The World’s Richest Mascot Race’ with the first three mascots taking place in a penalty shoot out with the winner receiving £500.  With 32Red sponsoring the raceday it would be apt if the Aston Villa mascots, Hercules and Bella, were to win the Mascot Race.

For further information please contact:
Rod Kohler, Revolution on 01903 883747