The ROA Epsom Awards: A Celebration of Racing Excellence

Nov 27, 2024 at 5:50 PM
The Racehorse Owners Association (ROA) has just unveiled the nominees for the highly anticipated ROA Epsom Awards. These awards, set to take place at the prestigious Epsom Downs Racecourse on Saturday, November 30, are a grand celebration of the remarkable achievements of Epsom's NH and Flat horses, as well as their trainers and industry staff over the past year. The ceremony and dinner will be masterfully hosted by Frankie Foster and Mattie Batchelor, promising an evening filled with entertainment and celebration.

Unveiling the Stars of Epsom Racing

Best 2yo - Beautiful Things (M Attwater) vs Many Men (J Boyle)

Beautiful Things, trained by M Attwater, has shown great promise as a 2-year-old. With its unique racing style and potential, it has captured the attention of many in the racing world. On the other hand, Many Men, under the guidance of J Boyle, has also been making waves. Its consistent performances and determination on the track have earned it a nomination in this highly competitive category. Each horse brings its own set of qualities and challenges, making this a closely contested race.

The battle between these two 2-year-olds is not just about speed and agility but also about the trainer's ability to bring out the best in their charges. M Attwater and J Boyle have both put in countless hours of work and dedication, and the outcome of this race will be a testament to their efforts.

Best 3yo - Carnival (J Boyle), Hello Cotai (A West), Mc Loven (S Dow)

Carnival, trained by J Boyle, has been a standout among the 3-year-olds. Its explosive starts and powerful finishes have left spectators in awe. Hello Cotai, under the expert eye of A West, has also shown great potential, with its graceful movements and strategic racing approach. Mc Loven, trained by S Dow, is another force to be reckoned with. Its tenacity and ability to adapt to different racing conditions have made it a favorite among many.

In this category, it's not just about raw talent but also about the trainer's ability to manage and develop the horses. J Boyle, A West, and S Dow have all played a crucial role in shaping the careers of these 3-year-olds. The competition is fierce, and only one can emerge as the winner, but the journey of these horses has already been a thrilling one.

Best Older Horse - Epsom Faithful (P Phelan), Hodler (J Boyle), Live In The Dream (A West)

Epsom Faithful, trained by P Phelan, has proven its mettle as an older horse. With its years of experience and wisdom on the track, it has become a fan favorite. Hodler, under the tutelage of J Boyle, continues to impress with its strength and stamina. Live In The Dream, trained by A West, has also shown great resilience and determination in its older years.

These older horses have faced many challenges over the years but have continued to shine. Their stories are a testament to the dedication and hard work of their trainers. P Phelan, J Boyle, and A West have all played a significant role in keeping these horses in top form, and the competition for the Best Older Horse award is sure to be intense.

Best National Hunt Horse - Blue Universe (M Attwater), Classic Anthem (J Boyle), Martin Spirit (A West)

Blue Universe, trained by M Attwater, is a force to be reckoned with in the National Hunt category. Its agility and ability to navigate challenging terrains have made it a top contender. Classic Anthem, under the guidance of J Boyle, has also shown great potential in this field. Its elegant jumps and strategic racing style have earned it a nomination.

Martin Spirit, trained by A West, is another horse that has made a name for itself in National Hunt racing. Its courage and determination in the face of difficult obstacles have won the hearts of many. The competition among these three horses is fierce, and only one will be crowned the Best National Hunt Horse.

Most Improved Horse/Handicapper - Carnival Day (J Boyle), Thursday (S Dow), Tronido (S Dow)

Carnival Day, trained by J Boyle, has shown remarkable improvement over the past year. Its ability to overcome obstacles and perform at a higher level has been impressive. Thursday, trained by S Dow, has also made significant strides in its handicapping career. Its consistent improvement and determination have earned it a nomination.

Tronido, also trained by S Dow, has been a dark horse in this category. Its sudden burst of performance and ability to adapt to different racing conditions have caught the attention of many. The competition for the Most Improved Horse/Handicapper award is wide open, and any of these three horses could emerge as the winner.

Horse of the Year - Cabeza De Llave (M Attwater), Rabinal (S Dow), Smasher (M Attwater)

Cabeza De Llave, trained by M Attwater, has had an outstanding year. Its consistent wins and ability to perform in various conditions have made it a strong contender for the Horse of the Year award. Rabinal, trained by S Dow, has also shown great potential and has been a rising star in the racing world.

Smasher, trained by M Attwater, is another horse that has made a significant impact this year. Its powerful runs and ability to dominate the competition have earned it a nomination. The race for the Horse of the Year award is expected to be a close one, with these three horses vying for the top honor.

'Horse with the most wins' Award

This evening will also see the presentation of the 'Horse with the most wins' award. The horse that has achieved the most victories over the past year will be recognized for its exceptional performance. It will be a moment of pride for the trainer and the horse, and a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Human Awards

The Stanley Wootton Award (incorporating the Racing Welfare Dedication to Racing Award), sponsored by Epsom Downs Racecourse, will recognize outstanding merit on behalf of Epsom as a racing and training centre. This award will go to an individual who has made significant contributions to the racing industry in Epsom.

The Howard Wright Special Recognition Award, sponsored by RaceTech, will recognize a person, horse, or special achievement that might otherwise slip under the radar of the conventional awards. This award is a chance to shine a light on those who have made a difference in the racing world.

The Sir David Prosser Trophy, sponsored by Lady Rosemary Prosser and Orbital Veterinary Services, will be given to the Epsom trainer with the most winners in a calendar year (November 5, 2022, to November 4, 2023). This is a prestigious award that will go to the trainer who has demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency in their training.

The judging panel, consisting of Epsom Downs and Sandown Park's Andrew Cooper, the Racing Post's Lee Mottershead, Rishi Persad, and the ROA's Sarah Holton, will carefully consider all the nominations and make their decisions based on merit. The anticipation is building as we await the announcement of the winners on this wonderful evening of racing and celebration.