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Legends of the trotting gait Dick Lee and the late Bob Conroy will have new awards presented in their name at next Friday’s Victorian Square Trotting Association annual awards night.
The first recipients will be honoured for the Bob Conroy Excellence in Trotting Award, presented to someone who has been outstanding in the field, and the Dick Lee Rising Star, presented to an outstanding participant aged under 25.
They will be in addition to the 12 awards regularly presented at the celebration at Tabcorp Park Melton from 6pm on Friday, November 22, when the night will be hosted by MC Paul Campbell and feature an interview with special guest Kima Frenning.
Anne-Maree Conroy, a trainer-driver and association committee member, said it was an “important” night to recognise those who had participated in, helped advance and enjoyed success in the trotting gait.
“It’s a celebration of both participation and performance,” Conroy said. “Most of the awards are done on points accrued throughout the year, they are not nominated for, and quite often there might be a horse that races regionally that might win a trophy and often a less obvious trainer or driver.”
She said it was also a night that those with a passion for the trotting gait could get involved, with the association also holding its annual general meeting.
“If people would like to put their hands up for the committee they are welcome,” Conroy said. “We are here to promote the trotter and trotting people, regardless of whether you have one horse or 50. We advocate for trotting, sponsor races and offer bonuses to members at the Redwood Carnival and other events.”