Michael Owen signed up as British Champions Series Ambassador

Michael Owen, the former Manchester United, Liverpool and Real Madrid striker who scored 150 goals in the Premier League and 40 for England, is to become an Ambassador for the QIPCO British Champions Series.

Owen, who has a keen interest in horseracing and owns several prominent racehorses, will be providing advice, insights and support in an ambassadorial role for the Series in 2013 and beyond, helping the sport to promote itself more effectively to new audiences and keen sports fans.

Michael Owen’s top long distance performer, Brown Panther, is a likely runner on QIPCO British Champions Day on Saturday 19th October where he’s expected to take on The Queen’s filly Estimate in the opening Long Distance Cup.

Rod Street, chief executive of British Champions Series commented, “We’re delighted to have Michael as part of our team. He brings a wealth of knowledge from the footballing world which, combined with his deep understanding of horseracing and global profile, will help us immensely to bring new audiences to racing.

“We are committed to confirming the role of British Champions Series as one of the UK’s key sporting highlights alongside events such as the Ashes, Wimbledon and FA Cup Final, and believe Michael’s profile and industry knowledge will speed our progress towards this goal.

“British horseracing hosts many of the most important races in the world with British Champions Day providing the highest-rated race on the planet two years running. With Michael’s help we can get this message to more sports fans.”

Michael Owen commented, “I’m delighted to be able to utilise my experience from Premiership football and my passion for racing in order to bring younger audiences into the sport. Flat racing in Britain is the best in the world and the QIPCO British Champions Series and Champions Day showcase races no sports fan should miss.”

Michael’s interest in the sport includes co-ownership of the Manor House Stables in Cheshire, a racing yard established by Michael and his wife in 2007. Last season, the Stables sent out a record 81 winners, overseen by trainer Tom Dascombe. Other owners in the yard include prominent footballers Wayne Rooney, Charlie Adam and Peter Crouch.