I don’t just want to survive, I want to be happy, and my happiness is horses’ – an inspirational quote from an inspirational woman
The Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards recently gathered at the Keadeen Hotel on the outskirts of the Curragh to celebrate the dedication of the industry’s most essential, yet often unseen, contributors. The event highlighted the profound emotional bond between horse racing professionals and their animals, framing the industry not just as a profession, but as a source of fundamental happiness.
Triumph Over Adversity
The evening was marked by the inspirational story of Michelle Mallon, the winner of the 2026 Newcomer Award. Mallon previously faced a severe bout of internal sepsis, during which she was given only a 30 per cent chance of survival.
During her medical crisis, Mallon faced a high risk of cardiac arrest during surgery, and a priest was called to administer last rites. Reflecting on her recovery and passion, Mallon stated, “I don’t just want to survive, I want to be happy, and my happiness is horses.”
Celebrating the Unsung Heroes
The awards recognized several key figures who operate behind the scenes of major racing stables. Jack Madden, Gordon Elliott’s travelling head lad, and David Porter, who previously cared for Quevega and leads Willie Mullins-trained winners, both received honors for their passion.
Madden emphasized the intensity of the preparation required for major events like Cheltenham, noting that the team gears up for 12 months. He joked about a brief three-month attempt at becoming a builder before returning to his true calling.
Aoife Dempsey received the Irish Racing Excellence Award, the night’s overall prize. In addition to the standard €4,000 given to winners, Dempsey received an extra €5,000 for her exceptional work as head girl for Ted and Katie Walsh.
Breaking Ground and Building Community
David Christie jnr’s award highlighted his role in the career of Winged Leader, a 12-year-old horse with 41 wins, including 37 between the flags and four in hunter chases. Christie noted that the horse continues to teach him new things every day.
The administration award went to Stephanie Kennedy of Ballylinch Stud, who was absent due to the birth of her daughter, Mara, eight days prior. Other winners included Brian Moloney, head travelling lad for John McConnell, and stalls handler John Wixted, a 35-year industry veteran.
Listowel earned the racecourse award, with stable yard manager Paddy Madden and chairman Maurice Carroll announcing that the €2,500 prize money would be used to improve the staff canteen.
Potential Industry Impacts
The recognition of these employees could lead to increased visibility for the grueling roles within the racing circuit. Such accolades may encourage more newcomers to enter the field, seeing a clear path toward professional recognition.
the decision by Listowel to invest winnings into staff facilities could serve as a model for other racecourses. This may potentially lead to a broader trend of improving the daily working conditions for stable staff across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the overall prize at the awards? Aoife Dempsey won the Irish Racing Excellence Award, receiving a total of €9,000 (€4,000 standard prize plus an additional €5,000). How will the racecourse award winnings be used? Listowel intends to use the €2,500 winnings to make improvements to the staff canteen. What is the record of Winged Leader, the horse associated with David Christie jnr? Winged Leader has won 41 races, with 37 wins coming between the flags and four in hunter chases. Do you believe that the unsung heroes of professional sports deserve more public recognition than they currently receive?