NTRA CREATIVE SERVICES LAUNCHED

Initiative Expands Co-op Advertising Program to Full-Service Marketing Unit

Today at its fourth annual Marketing Summit at the Mirage Hotel and Casino's Treasure Island in Las Vegas, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) announced the formation of NTRA Creative Services, which expands the NTRA's co-op advertising program to encompass a full line of integrated marketing and advertising production services.

"NTRA Creative Services allows us to use the best creative ideas from an array of agencies and deliver cost efficiencies that can be passed along to members, while providing a long-term revenue stream for the NTRA," said Keith Chamblin, NTRA senior vice president - industry relations and marketing. "Many of the programs being offered by NTRA Creative Services are co-op reimbursable, so we're looking forward to providing expanded services at a substantial savings to members."

Among the services offered to member tracks are

• Print, radio, television and other forms of customized advertising;
• E-marketing, including e-newsletters, targeted e-mailings and online promotions;
• Web site development and hosting through NTRA Productions;
• Consumer research, including focus groups, quantitative studies and behavior tracking;
• Direct mail and database marketing;
• Media buys;
• Ambient alternative media programs;
• Original music and ad jingles; and
• Stock and Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships photos

The NTRA is a broad-based coalition of horseracing interests, including the American Quarter Horse Association, charged with increasing popularity of horseracing and improving economic conditions for industry participants. The NTRA and Breeders' Cup Limited also conduct the Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships, Thoroughbred racing's year-end Championships consisting of eight races and $13 million in purses and awards, the Breeders' Cup Stakes Program and the Great State Challenge. The NTRA has offices in Lexington, Ky., and New York City. NTRA press releases appear on the NTRA Web site, NTRA.com.