Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards nominations closing soon
The prestigious awards — presented by Godolphin and supported this year by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA), The Jockey Club, National the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HPBA), Breeders’ Cup Ltd., Churchill Downs, and Keeneland — carry a total prize-pool of $128,000. Both the category winners and their fellow peers in their stable, farm, or office benefit from being recognized.
Nominations for the awards can be made by anyone within the industry, from any part of the United States. Trainers, owners, breeders, managers and colleagues can show their appreciation for the hard-working members of their staff and reward those individuals who form the backbone of the racing and breeding industry in America.
The awards are divided into six categories, with four that are specific to breeding and racing. These category winners will receive $10,000 each, along with another $5,000 to be shared among their co-workers. Two runners up will receive $2,500 each, with another $2,500 to be shared.
The Newcomer Award, which was added in 2017, will reward the winner with $5,000 and a trip to Dubai, as well as an additional $2,000 to share among co-workers. Runners up will receive $2,000 each, with another $1,000 to be shared. The sixth category, The Community Award, rewards one winner with $10,000 and another $5,000 to be given to the winner’s designated charity.
As in past years, the nomination window for the awards opened in May during the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association's Kentucky Derby Trainers' Dinner. Previous TIEA ambassador D. Wayne Lukas put it best when he said, “Many of you in the room have someone that is worthy. Nominate them and give them an opportunity to be a part of this program. Open up your hearts and recognize them and give them the recognition and the financial reward they deserve.”
The winners will be announced during a ceremony hosted at Churchill Downs on Wednesday, October 31. Nomination forms are available at http://godolphinUSawards.com/nominations.