Australian Racing Christian Chaplaincy, in conjunction with Racing NSW and the NSW Racehorse Owners Association is pleased to announce the finalists for the 2011 "Strapper of the Year" award for Sydney racing.

The purpose of the award is to provide industry recognition for the contribution made by stable staff to the racing industry.

The winner will be announced at the NSW Racehorse Owners Association's annual Racing's Night of Champions on Thursday August 11, 2011.

Each strapper at four consecutive metropolitan meetings was invited to nominate up to three persons (from different stables) whom they thought suitable for the award.  Over 60 people were nominated.  These were then reduced to a short list of six using input from racing officials, trainers and track staff - a process made agonisingly difficult by the large number and high quality of equally worthy candidates.
 
The six finalists for the award are:

Michael Doolan

Michael has worked for Darley (formerly Crown Lodge) at Warwick Farm for 20 years.  Horses he has attended include Beaded, Trim and Freemason.  Michael 'Dooley' is everyone's friend.  He greets you with a smile and his vast knowledge and skill have been honed from trainers such as John Lundholm and John Hawkes.  Dooley is always immaculately dressed and is a tireless worker.

Brenna Harrison

Brenna has been with the John Thompson stable for just under two years.   She has strapped and ridden horses like Pane in the Glass and Gathering.  One of her greatest attributes is her attitude to work which is second-to-none.  Brenna's attention to detail is also exceptional and she presents herself and her horses impeccably, often wearing flowers in her hair matching the silks.

Carmen Hepburn

Carmen works at the Con Karakatsanis stable, having been there for seven years.  Carmen has been like one of the family at the stables.  She has a kind heart, a keen eye for the horses and the care she displays towards the animals cannot be matched.  She is a proud member of the Karakatsanis team and all other stable members rave about her hard working efforts

Anneliese Kamper

Anneliese has worked for the Joseph Pride camp for more than 19 months.  She has strapped Sacred Choice, Miss Marielle and Brom Brom, and is a much-valued staff member.  The effort she put in with Sacred Choice during the spring and autumn carnivals was a major reason why the mare had such success.  Anna is enthusiastic and helps keep the staff motivated and on their game.

Annette Lynch

Annette has been part of the Guy Walter team for around seven years.  She has strapped horses such as Out of Africa, Skyerush, Isola, Balmont, Delzera and Sandberg.  She is an excellent worker who loves the horses and is conscientious in ensuring their well-being.  Annette takes a deep interest in each horse's career and is a reliable and hard-working employee.

Manpreet Singh

Manpreet has been working at Graeme Rogerson's for two years.  His favourite horses are Fitness Fanatic and Balagarney, and he is a willing and reliable member of the Rogerson team.  Manpreet has a great work ethic and is very likeable character.  He is a proficient horseman and treats all of his horses with care and empathy.  Manpreet is a valued asset to the stable.

 

Congratulations to all the finalists!