Godolphin honors 'backbone of industry' with Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards

Godolphin, the international racing and breeding operation of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, honored seven employees of U.S. trainers, racetracks, and farms on Friday as winners of its Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards.

The awards are given to employees who are nominated for exemplifying the spirit of racing and breeding. The winners were announced on Friday during a luncheon at Keeneland in Lexington, Ky.

“For those who might not get all the attention either in the winner’s circle or the sales ring, these individuals are truly the backbone of our industry,” said Tom Law, the managing editor of The Saratoga Special, who served as a member on the judging panel.

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* Jonathan Estrada, a groom employed by trainer David Donk, received the Newcomer Award.

* Laura Scheer, a crossing guard for the New York Racing Association, received the Support Services Award.

* Darla Shoemaker Gaige, an office administrator for the Charles Town HBPA, received the Katherine McKee Administration Award.

* Don Jenkins, a groom at Darby Dan Farm, received the Dedication to Breeding Award.

* Felipe Pulido Mendoza, a groom for Richard Mandella, received the Dedication to Racing Award.

* Leanna Willaford, an assistant trainer for Bill Mott, received the Leadership Award.

* Jessica Hammond, a benevolence and counseling director and program director for Beyond the Wire, received the Dr. J. David “Doc” Richardson Community Award.

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