Carolina TV station wins Eclipse

NEW YORK - A program about the contributions to racing made by African Americans, produced by WTVI-TV in Charlotte, N.C., has earned the Eclipse Award for local television, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association announced Thursday.

The one-hour program, "Forgotten at the Finish Line," was broadcast on Feb. 14, 2001, and detailed the lives of African-American jockeys, trainers, and owners. It was produced by Steve Crump, who was also the host.

"Tremendous research and great execution went into this documentary," said Rick Gentile, a 10-time Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster who served as a judge. "A very impressive piece of work."

The award for local television will be presented at the Eclipse Awards dinner on Feb. 18 in Hollywood, Fla.

The awards are presented by the NTRA, National Turf Writers Association, and Daily Racing Form.