The finalists have been revealed today for the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employees Awards, sponsored by Godolphin.
Following two highly competitive rounds of judging, the 18 finalists from across British racing and breeding will head to Ascot Racecourse for the illustrious ceremony, hosted by ITV Racing’s Ed Chamberlin.
With £128,500 in prize money to be won across six categories, the awards celebrate the hard work, passion and dedication of the outstanding individuals who make a positive difference to the lives of our horses, people and local communities.
The final round of judging will take place at Ascot on 23 February, before the winners in each category and the overall Employee of the Year are announced at the evening ceremony.
All nominees who reached the 10-person shortlists but did not progress to the final three will receive a £250 prize in recognition of their achievement and contribution.
Brant Dunshea, acting Chief Executive of the BHA, said:
“My congratulations to this year’s finalists, who are truly worthy of this accolade. The 2026 ceremony promises to be another memorable occasion as we celebrate the very best of British racing and breeding.
“Everyone who was nominated, made the shortlists or got through to the final 18 should be immensely proud. You are all fitting representatives of the many individuals, yards, studs and communities across the country who make our wonderful industry the success it is.
“A huge thank you to our sponsors Godolphin, our award partners at the Racing Post, Racing TV and Ascot Racecourse, and of course to our esteemed judging panel – who no doubt have the toughest job.”
Hugh Anderson, Managing Director at Godolphin (UK and Dubai), said:
“Many congratulations to the 18 finalists for this year’s Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, all of whom should be very proud of making it this far.
“I would also like to congratulate everyone who was nominated and to thank those who took the time to nominate their employees, colleagues and friends.
“Godolphin is incredibly proud to support these awards which celebrate the backbone of our industry – its people – and without whom our great sport simply could not function.
“I look forward to celebrating these outstanding people at Ascot in a few weeks’ time.”
The finalists for each category are:
Newcomer Award
Emma Skerritt – Richenda Ford
Freddie Wilks – Charlie Johnston
Poppy Hatton – Folland-Bowen Bloodstock
Leadership Award
Carrie Sanderson – Karl Burke
Claire Freeman – Dan Skelton
Louisa Allen – Jim Boyle
Rider / Racing Groom Award
Ellie Jefferson – Christian Williams
Kieran Kourdache – Karl Burke
Michelle Kramer – Paul Nicholls
Stud Award
Dayna Walsh – Tweenhills
James Goddard – Chasemore Farm
Oleh Ihnatenko – Whitsbury Manor Stud
Dedication Award
Christopher Pattenden – Diana Grissell
Derek Snaith – Charlie Fellowes
Helen Halliwell – James Fanshawe
Community Award
Anna Collins – Chester Racecourse
Geraldine Jones – Godolphin
Hayley Clements – Micky Hammond
More information on the 2026 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards sponsored by Godolphin can be found here.
