Ellie Mackenzie and EFF trophy

21 November 2017, UK ~ The Arabian Racing Organisation (ARO) has announced the four nominees that have been nominated to receive the 2017 Arabian award by the Horserace Writers and Photographers Association (HWPA). The HWPA Awards, sponsored by Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, take place in December each year in London and recognise  achievements during the 2017 UK Arabian racing season. Award nominees for 2017 are: The Royal Cavalry of Oman, James Owen, Ellie Mackenzie and Heather Phillpott. This prestigious award went to ARO patron HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2016.

Owen, who recorded back-to-back ARO Trainer Championships also being owner and trainer of the Champion Arabian and Champion Mare, Dolfina D’Ibos commented: “It is an honour to have been nominated for the Arabian Award and I would like to thank Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club for their generous sponsorship of Arabian racing in the UK. Thank you to my owners, including HH Sheikh Hamdan, for allowing me the privilege to train for them and a huge thank you my staff at home and to ARO who continues to work hard to push our sport forward.”

Mackenzie, who represents Racing Welfare as their Arabian Racing Ambassador, had secured the Novice Jockeys title nomination was overwhelmed saying: “It’s a tremendous honour and a huge confidence boost, plus it is a good stepping stone to build on for next season. I can’t thank Racing Welfare enough, as well as all the owners and trainers who have given me chances, and of course my agent Anna Wallace for her unceasing support.”

ARO Chairman Charles Gregson said: “We thank the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club and also the Horserace Writers and Photographers Association for their support of UK Arabian racing, recognising the achievements of its’ participants in this way.

Hatta Presentation 2017 – the Royal Cavalry of Oman

“The Royal Cavalry of Oman and Heather Phillpott have been long term owner-breeders here in the UK and it is wonderful to see both ends of the scale rewarded with their respective nominations. Both James and Ellie have had outstanding seasons and we extend our best wishes to all the nominees for the awards ceremony on December 4 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.”

Images:
Ellie Mackenzie with the 2017 Emirates Equestrian Federation International Stakes Gr2PA trophy (won riding Riyam)
The Royal Cavalry of Oman receiving the trophy for Sylvine Al Maury’s win in the 2017 Shadwell Arabian Stallions Hatta International Stakes, Gr1PA

Photos by (C) Debbie Burt – Equine Creative Media