Cheltenham is to mark the achievement of Best Mate in winning a third consecutive totesport Gold Cup at last week's festival by renaming an enclosure in his honour.
The enclosure, directly opposite the main stands, has previously been sponsored by brewers Courage under the titles Fosters and Courage.
A £3.5 million redevelopment was opened last week, featuring the Dawn Run and Desert Orchid grandstands, with capacity increased to 12,500.
Cheltenham managing director Edward Gillespie, announcing the board's decision, said: "We feel it is wholly appropriate to commemorate Best Mate's achievement with the renaming of this popular enclosure.
"This third Gold Cup win is the equivalent for our sport of England winning the World Cup in football. We no longer have to look back to 1966, when Arkle won for the third time.
"Jump racing is enjoying a golden age and contenders for greatness will in future be compared with Best Mate."
Jim Lewis, owner of the popular champion, expressed his delight at the decision. "It is a truly wonderful tribute to a very public horse," he said.
Admission to the Best Mate enclosure will be free for the remaining fixtures this season, on April 14th, 15th and 28th, in order to encourage as many people as possible to sample the new facilities.