Equestrian sport continues to touch new heights and those promoting it deserve the highest accolades. Jockeys, trainers, and equestrian enthusiasts alike, each one of them is pivotal in the rise of this beautiful sport. Each year, the promoters of this sport are acknowledged and awarded for their contributions towards the betterment and expansion of horse racing, and this year, a triple crown winner has been rewarded.
The Big Sport of Turfdom Award is awarded each year to individuals or groups who enhance the coverage of racing. This year, America’s renowned equestrian trainer, who recently won the triple crown, will be rewarded for her exceptional contributions.
American equestrian set to receive Turfdom Award
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The Big Sport of Turfdom Award is given each year to the deserving candidates by the Turf Publicists of America (TPA). The 2023 award will be given to the renowned American trainer Jena Antonucci at the University of Arizona Racetrack on December 5.?While speaking in an interview with Thoroughbred Daily, the 47-year-old expressed her gratitude and jubilation. ?I am grateful to be selected as the next recipient of the Big Sport of Turfdom Award from the turf Publicists,? Antonucci said.
The previous winners of the Turfdom Award include many legendary equestrians the likes of jockey Mike Smith, Pat Day, and Bill Shoemaker. Author Laura Hillenbrand, broadcaster Jim McKay, and actor Tim Conway are some of the other notable names who have received the award.
Antonucci?s phenomenal year propels her to receive the Turfdom award
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Antonucci has been phenomenal in the last year. She was the one behind the exceptional 2023 campaign of GI Belmont S. and GI Travers S. winner Arcangelo. The 47-year-old trainer propelled Arcalengo to clinch the 155th Belmont Stakes worth $1.5 million. With this momentous victory, Jena Antonucci became the first-ever female trainer to win the Triple Crown race.
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The ATP president Najja Thompson was highly impressed by Antonucci?s incredible year. Heaping praises on the 47-year-old, she said, “It has been a historic and phenomenal year for Jena Antonucci.“?Thompson further highlighted her exceptional achievements, claiming that she rightly deserved the award.
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“From becoming the first woman to win a Triple Crown race and campaigning 3-year-old Arcangelo to multiple Grade I victories, serving as an advocate for women in the industry and leading by example.”, she added. Becoming the first-ever female trainer to win the Triple Crown race is truly a remarkable achievement. Jena Antonucci will now cap off her best year with a Big Sport of Turfdom award.
