• 2024 awards mark 20 years of honouring British racing’s heroes
• Total prize money of £128,500 on offer across six award categories
• Nominations are open until Tuesday 7 November 2023

Nominations are now OPEN for the 20th renewal of the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin.

With £128,500 in prize money on offer, the awards are an opportunity for British racing and breeding to shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals who make a positive difference to the lives of our horses, people, and communities.

Organised by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) in partnership with the Racing Post and Racing TV, the awards provide inspiring and heart-warming moments and create lasting memories for everyone involved.

None more so than last year, when Sarah Guest landed the Leadership Award before being crowned Employee of the Year – securing £30,000 in prize money for her and colleagues at John O’Shea Racing.

Nominations are open until Tuesday 7 November 2023 and can be made online at: thoroughbredawards.co.uk.

There are six award categories to choose from and total prize money of £128,500 – with up to £30,000 available to a single individual and their organisation.

To nominate, simply complete the online form or submit a short video explaining why your nominee would be a worthy winner. Examples of previously successful written and video nominations are available on the awards website.

All nominations will be considered by our judging panel, chaired by award-winning broadcaster Nick Luck and featuring several experienced industry figures, including Sarah Guest and Paddy Trainor – both previous Employees of the Year.

The final round of judging and the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards ceremony will be held on Monday 26 February 2024, with the venue to be confirmed later this year.

Julie Harrington, Chief Executive of the BHA, said:

“For 20 years, the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards have provided us with so many special memories and unforgettable moments, and I’m immensely proud of the role they continue to play in celebrating the very best of British racing and breeding.

“The awards are a wonderful opportunity to show our collective appreciation for the exceptional individuals who love and care for our horses, look after our people and go above and beyond to support our local communities.

“There are so many people deserving of recognition, so please do nominate friends, peers, employees – anyone who you think should be honoured for their excellence and extraordinary contribution.”

Hugh Anderson, Managing Director at Godolphin (UK and Dubai), said:

“The 20th anniversary of the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards is a significant milestone and everyone involved should be rightly proud of two decades celebrating the hardworking heroes of the racing and breeding industries.

“Godolphin is incredibly proud to sponsor the awards, which are undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year.

“We encourage anyone working in our wonderful sport to nominate their exceptional colleagues or employees”

Nick Luck, Chair of the judging panel, said:

“There’s nothing quite like the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards for showcasing the abundance of talent, devotion and unrivalled passion that exists across British racing and breeding.

“These awards are so special for everyone involved – for our winners, finalists and all their friends and colleagues who are, quite rightly, immensely proud of their achievements. It’s just a fantastic experience and it’s such a privilege to be involved, even if the judging process is fiendishly difficult.

“Whether it’s someone who provides unparalleled care for our horses or people, a newcomer who has had an immediate impact, an outstanding leader or loyal and dedicated member of the team, please don’t hesitate – nominate them for an award today!”

1. More information on the 2024 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards can be found in this fact sheet.
2. The 2024 judging panel can be viewed here.