Workers involved in the hands-on task of keeping the wheels of the racing industry turning on a daily basis are to be recognised at the annual Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards in London on Monday, 22 February.
Workers involved in the hands-on task of keeping the wheels of the racing industry turning on a daily basis are to be recognised at the annual Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards in London on Monday, 22 February.
The awards, sponsored by Godolphin and run by the British Horseracing Authority in conjunction with the Racing Post, are among the most prized in racing.
A total of 232 nominees were received this year - peers and employers are free to nominate any worker within the industry - for the six designated categories.
The newest, the Racing Community Award, presented in conjunction with Racing Welfare, recognises an outstanding contribution to the racing industry.
Others categories are for leadership, rider/groom, stud staff, dedication to racing, plus the prestigious David Nicholson Newcomer award.
The Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards started in 2005 in Britain, and such has been their popularity within racing that Ireland and Australia have adopted similar schemes, while there are plans for the United States and France to chime in as well.
Diana Cooper, spokesperson for Godolphin, said: "This is the 12th year of the awards in Britain, and since its inception, there have been over 2,000 employees in racing stables and on studs, whose hard work and dedication have been recognised by a nomination.
"His Highness Sheikh Mohammed wanted to back awards that would recognise the huge contribution made by those who work in racing, day in day out. He was keen to show his appreciation for all the work that goes into the care, development and the training of racehorses."
Cash prizemoney totalling £120,000 will be presented to the winners of the awards. The ceremony will take place at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel, Knightsbridge, London.
