The world of Thoroughbred racing is set to celebrate its finest as the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) announces the finalists for the 2024 Eclipse Awards. This annual event recognizes outstanding achievements in horse racing over the past year. Among the notable contenders are Dornoch, Sierra Leone, and Fierceness in the Three-Year-Old Male category. The awards ceremony will take place on January 23, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. ET, broadcasted live on FanDuel TV and other platforms. The evening's highlight will be the announcement of the Horse of the Year.
In the enchanting ambiance of a winter evening, the prestigious Eclipse Awards will convene in early 2024. Organized by the NTRA, this event celebrates excellence across 17 categories, encompassing both equine and human contributions to the sport. Over 200 eligible voters, including racing officials, journalists, and industry professionals, participated in the selection process. Finalists were chosen based on top three votes using a weighted scoring system, while winners are determined solely by first-place votes.
The finalists span various categories, highlighting exceptional performances. In the Two-Year-Old Male division, Chancer McPatrick, Citizen Bull, and Gaming have been shortlisted. For Three-Year-Old Males, Dornoch, Fierceness, and Sierra Leone are among the contenders. Other categories include Older Dirt Male, Sprinters, Turf Horses, Steeplechase Horses, Owners, Breeders, Trainers, and Jockeys. Notably, Mike Gillum will receive the Horseplayer of the Year award, and media members will be honored for their coverage in six categories.
Each finalist will receive two complimentary tickets to the awards ceremony, courtesy of The Jockey Club. During the live show, the finalists for Horse of the Year will be revealed, adding an element of suspense to the evening.
The Eclipse Awards not only recognize individual achievements but also underscore the collective effort and dedication of the entire Thoroughbred racing community. It serves as a testament to the passion and excellence that define this sport. As we anticipate the results, it is clear that this event highlights the pinnacle of achievement in Thoroughbred racing, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness.