Magnificent staff awards yet to be fully embraced by too many

In the sumptuous surroundings of Kilkenny’s Newpark Hotel on Tuesday night, close to 300 people gathered to honour the largely unheralded endeavours of the Irish stud and stable staff community.

Many of the industry’s more recognisable faces who have attended any of the three ceremonies since Godolphin transformed the event with a massive injection of prize-money in 2015 will tell you it is one of the most gratifying functions of its type.

This year, Horse Racing Ireland secured the distinguished services of Kilkenny hurling icon Brian Cody for the presentations.