York Racecourse is delighted to announce that Dubai based Al Basti Equiworld will support the Group Two Gimcrack Stakes, in a three year enhancement of its existing backing for the leading venue.
 
The brand is already globally recognised as the leading provider of a wide range of equine products and this latest support will further raise that profile as the Gimcrack is one of the most famous races run on the Knavesmire, dating back to 1846.
 
Last season, the contest was the richest Group Two race for juvenile colts and the first running under its new partner’s name will see prize money boosted to a record level of £225,000; when it will be the pattern race highlight of Saturday 26 August, the final day of the Welcome to Yorkshire Ebor Festival.
 
Racing connections at York are already familiar with Al Basti Equiworld as the brand has backed the new Owners’ Welcome Building since it opened in 2015 and will now extend that exclusive support to the main Owners and Trainers Restaurant, as well as the Winning Connections Building.
 
Founder of the business, Malih Al Basti, is particularly keen to recognise the work done by both jockeys and stable staff; so an innovative part of the new agreement will see it partnering with the racecourse as it provides appropriate food for the jockeys and a complimentary meal for stable staff with a runner.
 
Speaking about the agreement, York Racecourse Chairman, Lord Grimthorpe said, “The Gimcrack is a race that I hold particularly dear, so it is very exciting news that Malih and the rest of the team at Al Basti Equiworld share my enthusiasm for this famous contest.”
 
Summing up the partnership, Malih Al Basti said, “York Racecourse works hard to support horsemen and I share their commitment to Owners, Trainers, Jockeys and Stable Staff so I was keen to back their efforts. The Gimcrack is one of those races that echoes around the racing world and I am proud that it will now carry our name.”