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Nominations open for 2022 Stud and Stable Staff Awards

Stables and Studs in South Australia have a chance to acknowledge the achievements of the unsung heroes within our industry by nominating dedicated staff in the 2022 Stud and Stable Staff Awards (SSSA).

Almost $100,000 in prize money is up for grabs this year with nominations now open for several award categories including leadership, horsemanship, dedication to breeding, dedication to racing, administration and ancillary, thoroughbred care and welfare, and a newcomer award.

Award ambassador and Racing SA’s Industry Development and Training Officer, Clare Lindop, is urging as many locals as possible to enter.

“The Stud and Stable Staff Awards enable our stable hands and track work riders to shine in the spotlight, and are a great platform to recognise the workers who are the backbone of an organisation,” Lindop said.

“Working in a stable means early morning starts and a commitment to the lifestyle that the racing routine demands. No matter what the weather, working with animals takes dedication and responsibility.

“This is the chance to nationally recognise and thank the staff who quietly go about their jobs for the pride and joy that comes with treating each racehorse as an individual, which as a result helps them reach their full potential and in many cases move through to the winners circle.”

In Australia alone over half a million dollars in prize money has been awarded since the SSSA’s inception in 2015, and this year $10,000 is on offer for each winner of six of the categories, plus an additional $1,000 for each employer to share among staff.

Nominations are open until March 15 with category winners to be announced at the SSSA Awards ceremony on the Gold Coast in May.

“Often the staff back home in the stables miss out on the fun perks, glitz and glamour of being at the races. But as we all know, everyone has to play their role for a team to have success - and I couldn’t have done my job as a jockey without everyone pitching in and working hard in the background,” Lindop said.

“I feel like South Australia has been underrepresented in this process in the past, and I believe there are a few hidden gems to be discovered.

“The awards are all about showing gratitude to those who have helped the industry thrive during what’s been a challenging period, and may even help an individual grow and further their own education and skills.”

As the judging panel only has the nomination form as a reference as to why each individual is deserving of recognition, those nominating are encouraged to include as much relevant detail as possible and include strong examples of dedication within the workplace. Grammar, spelling and punctuation won’t impact entries.

Racing SA’s Chairman of Stewards Johan Petzer is one of 11 judges who represent all parts of the racing industry who’ll convene to choose two finalists in each category.

To view all award categories, and to nominate, click here, or contact Fran Khan at sssa@racingaustralia.horse.

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