Each and everyone of these trainees has worked extremely hard this year in both their on job and off job training. Selecting prize winners was one of the hardest jobs we have had to date. These awards are made after having taken into account the all round performance of the trainees throughout the year which includes their work around the stables, attendance and performance at trainee meetings, general attitude and conduct as observed at their place of work at race meetings and any other industry related events.

The 2009 Premier Trainee Award presented on behalf of Northern Harness and Kumeu Trotting Club by Kumeu Trotting Club President Rod Bowker went to Simon Lawson, Simon was also awarded the the John Villiger Memorial Cup for the most improved Waikato Trainee. Simon is part of the Reid/Rogerson team in the Waikato.
Simon's hard work and dedication certainly paid dividends for him this year.

The Auckland Trotting Club Award, presented by Auckland Trotting Club President Rod Croon to the Auckland trainee who has shown excellence in completing the National Certificate in Equine Practice- Harness Racing went to Kelly Blakemore. Kelly also won the Hall of Fame and Franklin Trotting Club award for excellent attendance and presentation at Trainee school. Kelly is employed at the Kumeu Stables of Dave Gibbons.

The Charlie Elliott Memorial Cup, presented by Rob Lawson of behalf of the Te Awamutu Harness Racing Club and the Morrinsville Trotting Club to the Waikato trainee who has shown excellence in completing the National Certificate in Equine Practice- Harness Racing went to Zachary Butcher, Zach also won the North Islands Horsemens Trophy awardded to the Horseman showing the most promise.

The Auckland Amateur drivers Award presented by Anne Phillips, awarded to the trainee who has shown a high level of competence in all areas went to Brady Jones, Brady is part of Michelle Wallis's team at Waiuku.

The Rising Stars Awards presented by Russel McIssac from The Auckland Sportmen's Association went to Tate Hopkins, Tate is employed by Taupaki trainer Frank Cooney.

The Novice Award went to Brett Thomas from the Berger Stables in Cambridge.

The Roy Purdon Practical Horse Person Award presented by Roy went to Simon McMullan formerly from the Reid/Rogerson team at Pukekohe but now
with Doug Gale at Helensville.

The Manukau Cup was awarded to Amanda Grieve. The Most Improved Auckland Trainee was awarded to Shane Butcher.

Courtesy Gayleen MACKINNON (HRNZ)