Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards deadline looming on Friday with nominations encouraged

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Nominations for the Godolphin-backed Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards close this Friday, with a leading figure from the organisers encouraging the public to put forward individuals before the deadline.

Ten awards are up for grabs, along with a prize pool of €60,000 for winners and their colleagues, and Joe Osborne says they provide a unique opportunity to recognise the dedication and expertise of staff working behind the scenes in Irish racing and breeding.

“Anyone can nominate a friend or colleague," he said. "It doesn’t have to be someone you work with directly. We want to make it as easy as possible for people to acknowledge the talent across our industry, whether in a racing yard, stud farm or supporting role.”

• Nominate here

He added: “Ireland has a world-class bloodstock industry in terms of breeding and racing, and it's not just because of the horses but I think, primarily, because of the quality of people we have working here. 

“I think Ireland is one of the few countries in the world where a career with horses is seen as a legitimate choice for people. These awards are a great way to acknowledge skill and dedication, and give people their moment in the spotlight.”

The awards, now in their tenth year, have a simplified nomination process. In the past, nominators were required to write detailed profiles, but Osborne says the updated system makes participation easier.

“After you submit a nomination online, a representative from Clark People Solutions will contact the nominator to complete the profile by phone,” he said. “It makes it easier for the nominator, and then for the judging panel themselves. They get a consistent report on all the nominees.”

Osborne, who stepped down from his role as Godolphin Ireland’s managing director in November after 32 years, says the industry has made significant progress in recognising staff in recent times.

“I think huge strides have been made,” he said. “Horse Racing Ireland has put a lot of emphasis on career pathways. The two challenges when it comes to employment are attracting and recruiting people, and then retaining them. 

"Events such as this, which give people recognition, must be helpful. We’ve got great people, and more things can be done, but we've come an awful long way in a relatively short space of time.”

Categories include a Newcomer Award, along with five Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, plus the introduction of an Administration Award and an Ancillary Services Award. 

All winners are eligible for the Irish Racing Excellence Award, with the Racecourse Award winner selected separately by the Irish Stable Staff Association.

The awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday, June 2, at the Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge, County Kildare. Nominations must be submitted online before 5pm on Friday.

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