New Zealand Bloodstock representative and legendary Group One-winning jockey Brent Thomson received recognition for his services to racing this week when receiving the Victorian Club Service to Racing Award.
The Victorian Club is an exclusive members club that has always had a deep affiliation with racing, and the associated award with rich history of top racing identities.
Thomson, affectionately known as ‘BT’ or ‘The Babe’ rode Dulcify (NZ) to Cox Plate glory for renowned trainer Colin Hayes who also features on the prestigious award list.
Led to believe he was attending the awards lunch to celebrate Family of Man, the horse Thomson claimed the second of his four Cox Plate victories on, he said it was a bit of a shock when he realised he was the recipient of an award.
“I was a bit blown away as they got me there under false pretenses,” commented an elated Thomson.
“I got invited to it thinking Family of Man was being acknowledged and that I was there because I rode him, but after I got up and spoke about how good he was they said there’s another award to be presented and they brought up my name.
“I was surprised and honoured to be acknowledged by the Victorian Club with their Services to Racing Award, this Club has always had such a strong affiliation with the racing fraternity and if you take a look at the honour role, I am in great company,” he added.
The son of a leading trainer Kevin Thomson, Brent became the champion apprentice of New Zealand at the young age of 16.
He moved to Australia as a fresh-faced teenager to further his career earning the nickname ‘The Babe’ from the local racing press.
Thomson retired from riding in 2000 but continued to work in the bloodstock industry and became a valuable member of the New Zealand Bloodstock team in 2001 with the main objective to promote New Zealand horses.
“I could not think of a more worthy recipient for this award,” commented NZB Director of Business Development Mike Kneebone.
“Brent is not only a racing legend in Australasia but around the world and he is one of the most loved by young and old.
“He’s a Kiwi national treasure and has dedicated his life to the racing and breeding industry, particularly in Victoria. The whole NZB team are thrilled to see this great man recognised.”