NTWAB will honor veteran jockey Perry Ouzts and industry leaders at its 65th Annual Awards Dinner, the organization announced Wednesday.
The prestigious event, scheduled for October 29 at The Brigantine Del Mar in California, will recognize 71-year-old Ouzts with the Mr. Fitz Award. The veteran jockey made history this summer by surpassing Russell Baze for the most rides by a jockey in North American racing.
Track executive Joe Harper will receive the Joe Palmer Award for meritorious service to racing. Harper has served as an executive at Del Mar Thoroughbred Club since 1978, guiding the Southern California track through a period of significant growth.
Steve Andersen, a longtime news correspondent who joined Daily Racing Form in 1994, will be presented with the Walter Haight Award for career excellence in turf writing.
The Jim McKay Award for broadcast excellence will go to Nick Luck, one of international horse racing’s most respected broadcasters. Luck has been a fixture in American racing television for nearly two decades, known for his analysis and interviewing skills during NBC‘s coverage of the Breeders’ Cup and Triple Crown events.
The annual dinner serves as the organization’s only fundraiser. Tickets are available on the NTWAB website for $85 for members and Breeders’ Cup credentialed media, while non-members and guests can purchase tickets for $115.
