Juddmonte takes over Spinster sponsorship

One of the most prestigious races at Keeneland, the $500,000 Spinster Stakes, has a new signature sponsor. The Grade 1 filly-mare race will be known as the Juddmonte Spinster when it is run Oct. 9 at the Lexington, Ky., track.

Juddmonte, which encompasses six farms in England and Ireland and three in the United States, including one in Lexington, replaces Overbrook Farm as the Spinster sponsor. Juddmonte becomes the third sponsor of the Spinster, following Three Chimneys (1996-2000) and Overbrook (2001-04).

The 1 1/8-mile Spinster long has been a crucial race in the North American filly-mare division, having been won by such champions as Bowl of Flowers, Gallant Bloom, Susan's Girl, Bayakoa, and Paseana.

Juddmonte's president, Dr. John A. Chandler, said the farm "is delighted to sponsor a race with such rich tradition and historical significance."

The 2004 Spinster was won by Azeri, trained by D. Wayne Lukas.