Footprint honored in Alberta

Footprint, who last summer put together a three-race win streak at Northlands Park capped by the Canadian Derby, was honored as Albertas horse of the year and champion 3-year-old male at last Saturdays Night of Champions ceremony at Stampede Park in Calgary.

Footprint, a Kentucky-bred, is trained by Joan Petrowksi, who also is co-owner with Derek Milen and Elwin Page.

Shes Italian, 4, was named the provinces top Alberta-bred for the second straight year and was the champion in the older filly or mare division. Doug Macdonald trains Shes Italian and Teagues Fight, an Alberta-bred 4-old-gelding who was voted champion older male.

Other equine honorees included Tanika, 3-year-old filly; Brazen Son, 2-year-old colt or gelding; Littlemiss Allison, 2-year-old filly; Laketon, sprinter; and Ka Blui, claimer.

Also honored were Ricky Walcott, leading rider; Greg Tracy, leading trainer; Bar None Ranches, leading owner; and Horizon Farm, leading breeder.

Real Simard, regular rider of Footprint, was the recipient of the horseperson of the year award.

Barry Buker, a longtime contributor to Daily Racing Form, received the Lloyd and Mary Wilson trophy, a special appreciation award.

A new award for top freshman sire went to Tiger Trap.