By Patrick Avenell

MELBOURNE, VIC: TCL Electronics Australia is once again basking in the reflected glory of Australia’s favourite week of racing. For the fifth straight year, the Australian arm of the Chinese consumer electronics giant is the official LCD TV supplier to, and sponsor of, the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington.

The Carnival stretches over four days of racing, each with a different flavour to keep the punters happy. Last Saturday was Derby Day, Australia’s only all-Group racing day. Tomorrow is the Melbourne Cup, the most celebrated single sporting event in the country. Thursday is Crown Oaks Day, also known as Ladies’ Day. Finally, Saturday is Emirates Stakes Day, the traditional close to the Spring Carnival.

TCL will be there every day this week, with branded LCD screens throughout the course. In addition, there will be signage strategically placed to be captured on one of the three different TV stations covering the race.

TCL managing director Paul Widdis said that horseracing was just a part of TCL sports-aligned marketing strategy.

“Sport is the key; it is a great tool for bringing people together and socially bridging the gap.  We will be continuing our tradition of sports sponsorships with our involvement in the upcoming Masters Golf Tournament and the 2009/2010 cricket season, just to name a few,” Widdis said.

As part of its overall sponsorship deal, TCL has the naming rights to a stakes race on Crown Oaks Day. This will be Race 4 on Thursday.

“TCL looks forward to strengthening the relationship we have created with the VRC and the Melbourne Cup Carnival.  We are proud to be involved in such a prestigious international sporting event,” said Widdis.