Hayes praises Awards

David Hayes

Author Mike Hedge, date September 27

 

The complexities of running any racing stable place an extraordinary emphasis on teamwork and initiative, according to Australian Racing Hall of Fame trainer David Hayes.

But when the number of horses on a trainer’s books gets into the several hundreds and when there are stables in two states to run, along with a training complex and farm, every member of the staff has a vital role to play.

“You can never anticipate what will happen on a given day, especially in racing,” says Hayes.

“That’s what makes every job in the racing business important. No trainer can do it by themselves.”

Hayes’ recognition of the demands of a modern training business is reflected by the recent additions of his son Ben and nephew Tom Dabernig as co-trainers with him at Lindsay Park.

The same recognition filters down through all levels of his operation, which is why he regards the Godolphin Stud and Stable Awards so highly.

When the Awards were introduced in Australia last year, Hayes nominated his farm manager Richard Nettleton who was successful in the Leadership section, one of six categories which each carried a $10,000 cash prize.

“It’s one thing to acknowledge your own staff, but it’s very important for the industry to acknowledge the existence of all those people working in racing who keep the business ticking over and who keep the horses fit and healthy,” Hayes said.

“Without them there wouldn’t be any racing.”

Hayes was joined in his praise for the awards, which are also made in the UK, Ireland and France, by trainer Robbie Griffiths, president of the Victorian branch of the Australian Trainers’ Association.

“We are part of an industry that relies heavily on all the staff of every stud and racing stable, so to have an award such as this allows all those people to know they are valued,” Griffiths said.

“I congratulate Godolphin and their partners in the awards for a fantastic initiative.”

In Australia the Godolphin Stud and Stable Awards are staged in conjunction with Thoroughbred Breeders Australia and Racing Australia.

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