George Baker and Sulekha Varma announced as new judges for industry awards

George Baker and Sulekha Varma have been added to the judging panel for the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, which once again will be presided over by chair Nick Luck.

News of their appointment comes a week before the November 8 deadline for nominations for the Godolphin-sponsored TIEA, previously known as the Stud and Stable Staff Awards.

Nominations can be made in any of the six categories here with trophies and cash prizes totalling £128,000 awarded to the winners.

Baker has impressed in making the transition from Classic-winning jockey to respected racing analyst through his work with Racing TV and the Racing Post, the two main media partners of the TIEA.

"There is only a week left for people to nominate their friends and colleagues and I would urge everybody to do so, because even being nominated, let alone shortlisted or winning an award, means an awful lot to those who are," said Baker.

George Baker will join the judging panel for the Thoroughbred Industry Employee AwardsCredit: Edward Whitaker

"As a jockey, a key part of my success was having horses underneath me that were well cared for, in good shape and ready to perform on the day.

"Behind everything I did as a jockey was a team of people at yards across the country working hard to ensure this was the case, and I'm delighted to be able to play a part in once again ensuring these people are recognised and honoured for their dedication."

Varma graduated from her role as Hamilton clerk of the course in 2019 to take one of the most high-profile jobs in British racing, becoming clerk of the course at Aintree and the Jockey Club's head of racing for the north west.

"Over the last 18 years, we have seen the impact these awards have in terms of shining a spotlight on some of the most deserving people in our industry and I very much look forward to meeting this year’s nominees and learning their stories," said Varma.

"I am sure deciding upon the eventual winners is going to be very difficult, as I know from my experience working on racecourses how much hard work it takes from so many people to present horses to race in the best possible condition."

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Nominations are now open for the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, sponsored by Godolphin. Find out more by visiting thoroughbredawards.co.uk.