LIME pumps millions into Derby purse

Orville Clarke, Gleaner Writer

Saturday's 90th running of the Jamaica Derby at Caymanas Park, to be run over 2400 metres for the Sir John Mordecai Trophy, will take on a carnival-like atmosphere, with title sponsor LIME going the extra mile to make it a memorable occasion.

The race offers a record purse of $9 million - up from $5 million last year.

Details for the LIME Jamaica Derby, the second leg of the Triple Crown series, were outlined at yesterday's launch at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel by representatives of telecommunications giant LIME and the promoter, Caymanas Track Limited (CTL).

Speaking on behalf of the new sponsor, Wayne Lawrence, vice-president of marketing, LIME, said the move is "very beneficial" to the company on several levels.

"This is why we are pleased to announce the sponsorship of the LIME Jamaica Derby, with a contribution to the purse of $3 million.

"LIME is delighted to open a new and exciting chapter to one of the nation's oldest, much-loved and sought-after events ... It should come as no surprise that we want to make it a celebration that the whole family can enjoy.

"For the first time at the Jamaica Derby, LIME will host a family extravaganza on the infield (tent) with rides, games, surprises and entertainment throughout the day. To close the day, we will also have a series of special performances by some top local entertainers (Elephant Man, Chino, Richie Loop).

"As Jamaica's most comprehensive telecommunications provider, the day could not be complete without LIME also providing some incredible deals and promotions."

While providing raceday details, CTL's racing secretary, Denzil Miller Jr, said the card will comprise 12 races, with a whopping $16.6-million purse package.

Three of these races will be sponsored by LIME - the Derby; the $1.5 million LIME Sprint (grade one) over 1300 metres; and the $900,000 LIME Juvenile Sprint over 900 metres straight.

Miller disclosed that a record 22 entries were received at the close last Saturday - including ante-post favourite and 2000 Guineas hero, MARK MY WORD; the 1000 Guineas winner, AL FOUZIA; Oaks heroine GABIWITZO; Lotto Classic winner LIFEISJUSFORLIVING and the runner-up, PRINCE ROHAN.

The people's race

Also speaking were CTL's deputy chairman, Raphael Gordon, and the company's acting CEO and director of marketing, Chris Armond, who fittingly declared: "Let's all gather at the people's place to see the people's race, sponsored by the people's phone."

Armond recalled that last year when the industry was glamouring for a purse increase and the board allocated $110 million, a decision was taken to make the purse for the Derby US$100,000.

"Chris Dehring (chief marketing officer LIME Caribbean) met with us and explained some of the plans for his company in Portmore and a deal was struck," said Armond. Admission to the infield is $500; children $100.