(Edited press release)
More than 250 breeders, families, and friends came together to celebrate the outstanding breeders of 2006 at the Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society's annual awards banquet at the Airport Marriott Hotel in Toronto, Ontario June 15.
Gardiner Farms took top honors with the breeder of the year award, sponsored by Agri-Brands Purina.
Mrs. Helen Gardiner, along with Gardiner Farms president, Dr. Michael Colterjohn, were awarded for their successful contribution to the breeding industry.
In addition, the family of the late J. F. Howard was presented with the Mint Julep Cup in recognition of Howard's lifetime contribution to the Ontario Thoroughbred breeding industry.
The Jockey Club of Canada's 2006 leading owner of Ontario was presented to Sam-Son Farm, who was also last year's winning recipient.
Four notable stallions were recognized, based on their 2006 earnings of eligible progeny. Bold Executive came in first, Archers Bay second, and Whisky Wisdom third. The award for top freshman sire was presented to Cat's At Home.
Several successful Ontario-breds were acknowledged with 11 photo awards being presented for historical grade I Canadian or open graded stakes winners, and 42 CTHS certificates of recognition presented to the breeders of Ontario-bred Stakes winners. Eleven CTHS members also received awards in recognition for their 25-year contributions to the Thoroughbred breeding industry.
A silent auction also took place during the event, consisting of industry-donated items and 2008 stallion seasons, the proceeds of which went to the LongRun Thoroughbred Foundation.