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| Sumita Pawar |
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The 2023 Australian Racing Hall of Fame & Horse of the Year Awards took place at Optus Stadium in Perth, where the Australian racing community gathered for this prestigious event.
One of the most historic moments of the night was when Gai Waterhouse, Australia’s first lady of racing, achieved Legend Status in the Hall of Fame. Her father Tommy Smith had also received this honor, making it an elite category for both of them.
Waterhouse expressed her heartfelt joy and humility at the recognition, describing it as a feeling similar to winning a Group One race.
The evening also saw the inductions of notable personalities including WA breeder and owner Bob Peters, jockey Frank Treen Snr, and renowned trainer Clarry Conners.
Conners, reflecting on his journey since his first win at 21, expressed his astonishment and gratitude at this unexpected honor.
In the equine category, champions like 1970 Golden Slipper winner Baguette, the celebrated grey Emancipation, and Royal Ascot victor Miss Andretti were inducted, commemorating their remarkable contributions to the racing world.