20.01.10 - THE GRAND NATIONAL

2010 JOHN SMITH'S GRAND NATIONAL UPDATE

With just over 11 weeks to go until the 2010 John Smith’s Grand National meeting gets underway (Thursday, April 8 -10), Aintree reported today that tickets and hospitality sales remain strong despite the global economic downturn.

As predicted, all seated enclosures have been very popular since going on sale in August (2009). However, selected grandstand seats are still available on all three days of the meeting, together with a selection of roof and terrace badges. Tattersalls tickets are available for all three days of the meeting.

Julian Thick, Aintree’s Managing Director, commented: “Sales have been particularly strong on the opening day of the meeting (Thursday, April 8), which in 2010 will see the inception of ‘Liverpool Day’. We have been pleased with demand for tickets and hospitality since going on sale last August and we have held many ticket prices from 2009, which has been well received by our customers.”

The racecourse advises anyone who wishes to attend any day of the John Smith’s Grand National meeting, to purchase their desired option in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be purchased online at www.aintree.co.uk, or by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0844 579 3001. Hospitality enquiries should call 0151 522 2911.

With John Smith’s sponsorship of the famous race extended for a further three years beyond 2010, Aintree and John Smith’s look forward to developing some exciting joint initiatives.

Gareth Turner, Senior Brand Manager - John Smith’s, said: “It is a very exciting period for John Smith’s Racing. In addition to our earlier announcements about Smithy the Horse, we are working with Aintree to launch a Grand National Hall of Fame in 2010.

“John Smith's 'Grand National Legends' will celebrate the stars of the Grand National - Equine and Human.  A shortlist of legends will be announced at the Official Launch of the 2010 John Smith’s Grand National in London on Tuesday, February 16, when we will announce further details on how racing fans can get involved and vote for their favourite legend.”