Ayr United land bumper sponsorship deal with gaming giant Bodog

May 13 2011 by Mike WIlson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

THE FLAMBOYANT billionaire who has put his shirt on Ayr United wants to make them a household name.

In a sponsorship deal that has made headlines around the globe, United will carry the name of the world's largest online betting brand, Bodog.

And Canadian born founder Calvin Ayre, who reckons he has roots in Ayr, plans to watch his adopted team against a Manchester United X1 at Somerset Park on Monday, July 25.

His spokesman, Ed Pownall, told the Post: “We are going to have some fun with this and try to make Ayr United everyone’s second team.

“We have some heavy resources and we’ll use them to make Ayr’s name known globally.

“From hockey fans in Canada and basketball supporters in China, everyone wants a second team to support. Let’s make that team Ayr United.

“We have big plans to unveil and we’re going to try and give the team a big push.

“We are genuinely excited about the deal. And we are looking forward to a long term relationship and want to build a love for the club.”

Ayre, who was the 746th richest person the world in 2006, approached startled United with the out of the blue offer.

A one year deal was quickly agreed with the option of an extension.

United have described the tie-up as ‘unbelievable’ and are working with Ayre on the design of next season’s strips.

But because Bodog are a gambling company, junior kit will carry the name of a children’s charity.

Ayre last year bought the domain Slots.com for £4million at an online auction while sat at the bar of a London restaurant.

And his company has many sporting interests, including Fulham, La Galaxy and Edmonton Oilers.

The 49-year-old was attracted to United because, as his surname suggests, his ancestry lies in Ayr itself.

Ayre said: "When I heard that the club was looking for a sponsor I knew I was going to make an offer but the fact that the colours are also the same as the Bodog brand colours sealed it.

"I won't pretend I know the area well but with a fondness for a drink and in particular Cabrach and Hendrick's Gin, barely a day goes by without me toasting the local economy in some way.

“When I heard about this I just couldn't resist and I hope that between the Bodog brand and myself we can bring some more good times to Ayr United.

“ We have plans to really get behind the team, not just hand over a cheque, and I am looking forward to paying a visit this summer and raising a glass to The Honest Men."

United commercial director Hugh Cameron said the club was thrilled to unveil Bodog as its main sponsor.

He said: “We look forward to building a successful partnership with Calvin and the Bodog brand, although clearly we will now have to review the choice of spirits we offer our guests in the boardroom.

"It's great news for everyone connected with Ayr United to have attracted a global brand like Bodog to our club and to the Scottish football league.

“The substantial financial agreement we secured was, of course, very welcome but we were also aware from ournegotiations with the company that we were signing an agreement with abusiness that has people with a real desire and intention to engage with the club, our supporters and the wider community, and I'm sure in time this will become apparent."