Outstanding women of the WA harness racing community celebrated
Talents of women in the Western Australian harness racing community were on show at this year’s Ladies of Pacing awards.
Around 110 guests were in attendance to recognise the contributions of women in the categories of welfare, administration, leadership and dedication to harness racing.
For the first time, the Welfare Award went to joint winners – Hannah Griffiths and Leonie Morrone, both committed to enhancing the lives of retired standardbred racehorses.
A recognised retrainer with Off the Track WA, Hannah is based in Bunbury and has been involved in the harness racing community for the past six years.
Leonie is the Standardbred Pleasure & Performance Horse Association of WA President and is passionate about showcasing the versatility and temperament of the standardbred horse through the volunteer association.
This year’s Administration Award winner is Pat Abbott, Secretary and Treasurer of Busselton Trotting Club.
Pat’s involvement in harness racing dates back to 1983, when she was given a retired racehorse. In the same year, Pat became a volunteer at the Busselton Trotting Club where she continues her hard work today, along with being an active member of the WA Country Harness Racing Association.
Renowned breeder, owner and trainer Karen Young took out this year’s Leadership Award, recognised for her outstanding contribution to the WA harness racing industry over the last forty years.
Karen has been a pioneer of the sport since the age of 17 and has educated and trained some of the State’s top standardbreds including Crown Bromac and Wonderful to Fly – the 2021 WA Two-year-old filly of the year.
The winner of the Dedication Award was local Pinjarra breeder Lil Adam who, along with her family, have made a profound contribution to the Pinjarra Harness Racing Club and the local Peel community.
Lil was introduced to harness racing through her late husband Roy in 1955, and was instrumental in the creation of the Pinjarra Paceway Social Club Committee, of which she was President for many years.
RWWA Chief Racing Officer Charlotte Mills said she was honoured to attend the event alongside women who continue to be trailblazers in the sport.
“Women have played such a significant role in harness racing since its inception,” Charlotte said.
“We are proud to celebrate these women for the positive impact they have had to date, as well as the footprint they leave for the future of WA harness racing.”
“Congratulations to all the winners of today’s awards.”
The 2022 Ladies of Pacing Awards were held at Fraser’s, Kings Park.
Pictured above (L-R): Kristie Morrone (on behalf of Leonie Morrone), Pat Abbott, Karen Young, Loretta Eddy (on behalf of Lil Adam) and Hannah Griffiths.