Microsoft’s Windows Phone is at the back of the pack in the smartphone race, but how will the company do in the Kentucky Derby?

Looking to elevate its brand on the national scene, and maybe just end up in the winner’s circle, Microsoft is sponsoring a thoroughbred named Hansen in the 138th Run for the Roses this weekend at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky.

The Windows Phone logo will appear on his silks.

As the winner of the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, the horse is among the favorites this Saturday, but regardless of where he finishes, he will stand out from the field as the only white horse in the running.

Microsoft is launching a Twitter contest in conjunction with the sponsorship, giving away two white Nokia Lumia 900s. Details on the Windows Phone blog.

Photo by Adam Coglianese via Microsoft

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