Aintree’s search for a new sponsor for the Grand National is over with the news that Crabbies has signed a three-year deal which means the famous steeplechase will offer STG1 million ($A1.74 million) prize money for the first time.
Since John Smith’s announced they would not be renewing their nine-year association with the race after 2013, Aintree and its owner the Jockey Club have been searching for a new backer.
Crabbies, who specialise in making alcoholic ginger beer, have sponsored races at a lower level for some time and also sponsor the Scottish football club Hibernian.
The company has its own unique link to the race as it is part of Halewood International, a company founded by the late John Halewood who won the 2004 Grand National with the Ginger McCain-trained Amberleigh House.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Crabbie’s as the title sponsor of the world’s most famous steeplechase. Crabbie’s has shown itself to be one of the most exciting, fun and relevant brands in the UK,” Aintree spokesman John Baker said.
