THE Tasmanian Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame inductions are always a highlight of the annual awards and this year was no exception.
Popular trainers Leon Wells and Neil Richardson were inducted with Wells’ record as a master of apprentices the key to his induction while Richardson was rewarded for his achievements over five decades in the industry.
Only one jockey, the late William “Bill Bevis, was inducted and his dominance for an eight-year-span in the 1920s, during which time he won six premierships in succession, secured his spot in the elite club for former champions.
Former jockey Geoff Prouse, who was one if the inaugural inductees in 2005, was honoured by being upgraded to legend status.
In the horse category, Mendeara Etoile was inducted as one of the best sprinter-milers to race in Tasmania along with the stallion St Albans, who was immortalised in racing history as the sire of Tasmania’s greatest horse Malua.
One of Tasmania’s leading owner-breeders, the late David Yaxley, who bred and raced star stayer Sydeston, was inducted in the Associates category and his son David Yaxley junior emotionally accepted his late father’s certificate.
Also inducted as an associate was Armidale Stud’s Robyn Whishaw with her induction met with thunderous applause from the 220 guests at Country Club Tasmania who gathered to celebrate the high achievers of 2014-15 season.