The 35th edition of the Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association (HTBA) Awards dinner was hosted on Wednesday 13 May, on the eve of the Scone Racing Festival. More than 300 guests attended to celebrate the champions of our region.
The 2026 HTBA Award winners are:
2-year-old Racehorse Award: Sponsored by International Animal Health.
Guest House (Home Affairs x Flamboyant Lass)
3-year-old Racehorse Award: Sponsored by Zoetis.
Sheza Alibi (Saxon Warrior {JPN} x Sheza Gypsy)
Champion Racehorse Award: Sponsored by Scone Race Club.
Joliestar (Zoustar x Jolie Bay)
Champion Broodmare Award: Sponsored by Scone Equine Hospital.
Shadow, owned by Kate Nivison of Etak Thoroughbreds
Champion First Season Sire Award: Sponsored by Kentucky Equine Research | Barastoc Ridley Partnership.
Home Affairs (Coolmore Stud)
Champion Sire Award: Sponsored by Inglis.
Snitzel (Arrowfield Stud)
HTBA President’s Lifetime Achievement Award:
Dr Joan Carrick BVSc, MVSc, PhD,Dipl. ACVIM (LAIM) Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Murray Bain Award for Service to Industry
Mr David White, Vinery Stud
Employee of the Year (Administration) Award: Sponsored by Select Events.
Ms Suzie Bray, Godolphin Kelvinside
Employee of the Year (Horsemanship) Award: Sponsored by Hunter Media Co.
Ms Michelle Vincent, Alma Vale Thoroughbreds
Employee of the Year (Leadership) Award: Sponsored by Morgan + English, Safe Industries, Thoroughbred Recoveries Partnership.
Mr Bruce Murray, Coolmore
Employee of the Year (Newcomer) Award: Sponsored by Duncan Equine.
Ms Claudia Atfield, Tooloogan Vale Broodmare Farm
Congratulations to all winners, the HTBA, and all involved in the event! To read more, click here.
