ATR steps in to give jockey awards special live show

The 2017 Stobart Lester Awards are to get their own special live ceremony after At The Races agreed to air a one-off programme on December 29.

With fixtures clashes leaving the Professional Jockeys Association unable to find a suitable slot to put on a traditional event at a venue, ATR has stepped in to ensure jockeys achievements over the last 12 months are recognised by providing coverage of the award presentations.

Nine accolades will be presented, including awards for Flat and Jump Ride of the Year, Flat and Jump Jockey of the Year and Special Recognition awards during a show hosted by Luke Harvey and Jason Weaver broadcast from the ATR studios.

There will be special studio guests during the programme, which will get under way at 4pm following live afternoon racing from Leopardstown.

Luke Harvey (left, with Tony McCoy and Ed Chamberlin) will present the ATR coverageCredit: Alan Crowhurst

PJA chief executive Paul Struthers said: "With racing taking place on December 23 this year we were facing another blank year for the Stobart Lesters.

"We were therefore delighted when At The Races agreed to produce a Stobart Lesters special programme and I’m sure Luke and Jason will make it a lot of fun ahead of the Stobart Lesters ceremony returning next year on the 22nd December, at a venue to be confirmed in the London area."

ATR director of broadcast, Rob Dakin said: "We’re delighted to team up with the PJA on this project, giving the Lesters live broadcast exposure for the first time. We’re always keen to showcase the incredible skills and dedication of our leading jockeys. Coming straight after four days of superb Grade 1 action, this special programme will be a must-watch for all racing fans."

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