Groundstaff at Carlisle Racecourse have been recognised as the best in the country for their work on track.
Thomas Wootten, Adam Irving, Daniel Wardlow and David Robinson, who all work within the team, have secured top spot in the Dual-Purpose category in the 2024 Racecourse Association Awards.
Led by clerk of the course Harry Phipps, the team works around the clock to ensure the racetrack is in peak condition all year round, with fixtures taking place both on the Flat and over Jumps.
Their win sees Carlisle join York and fellow Jockey Club racecourse Aintree - winners in the Flat and Jump categories respectively - in the running for the ultimate title of 2024 Racecourse Groundstaff Champion.
The overall winner will be revealed at the RCA Showcase Awards in Edinburgh on Thursday, November 7, where Carlisle Racecourse has also been shortlisted for another two awards in the Racing Foundation Green Award and Diversity and Inclusion categories.
The Carlisle Garden Project has earned the nomination in the former, with Carlisle's Ladies Night earning the Durdar Road racecourse a shortlisting in the latter.
Phipps said: “We are thrilled to have been named this year’s Dual-Purpose Category Award winner.
"It means a great deal to the team considering the competitiveness of the award, especially as a small racecourse.
“Carlisle is well known for its challenging weather conditions, and this year has been much the same.
"Regardless, the team has shown great resilience and dedication, ensuring Carlisle can provide a great racing product for all participants.
"Congratulations to Thomas, Adam, Dan and Davey within our core grounds team, as well as our extended team in the stable yard and out on the track.”
The RCA commended the Carlisle team for their commitment to environmental sustainability, equine welfare, and innovation as key factors in their award win.
The overall winner will be announced at the 13th annual RCA Showcase Awards at The Signet Library, Edinburgh on November 7.
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