Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners announced Wednesday that Hall of Fame trainer Bill Mott will receive the 2025 Warner L. Jones Jr. Horseman of the Year Award.
Mott, who captured his second Kentucky Derby victory this year with Godolphin’s Sovereignty, will be honored at the KTO’s annual awards dinner on Saturday, November 22 at the Kentucky Derby Museum.
“For me, the biggest honor you can have is to be recognized by your peers as someone who does a good job,” Mott said. “That’s the best compliment you can ever get. To be called Horseman of the Year? What’s better than that?”
The Warner Jones Award celebrates individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Kentucky racing while embodying the passion demonstrated by Jones, who served 50 years on the Churchill Downs board. Jones, who chaired the board for eight years during the track’s initial resurgence, became the award’s inaugural recipient in 1988, six years before his death.
KTO President Tommy Drury emphasized Mott’s worthiness for the honor.
“My gosh, a Hall of Fame trainer who spent a big chunk of his career here—and still has horses racing in Kentucky—and actually trained for Warner Jones,” Drury said. “I can’t think of a more deserving winner. Bill has been outstanding his entire career, and the fact that he has so many owners who have been with him for so many years speaks volumes about his horsemanship and character.”
The organization will also recognize Kentucky chief state steward Barbara Borden with the Woman of the Year Award, while Gabby Gaudet, Keeneland’s new Director of Communications, will receive the KTO’s John Asher Up and Comer Award.
Non-members can attend the awards dinner for $175 per person. The evening begins with cocktails at 6 p.m. followed by dinner at 7 p.m.
Reservations must be made by November 13 by contacting Lynda Woods at 502-644-5251 or by email.
