Riecken honored again

GRAND ISLAND, Neb. - Herb Riecken was honored as the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association award winner for Nebraska at Saturday evening's Nebraska Thoroughbred Breeders' Association annual banquet.

Riecken received the honor for the third time in his career and will represent the state at TOBA's national banquet in Lexington, Ky., in September.

The breeders' association awards recognize the top achievements in the state's Thoroughbred Industry. Other 2003 honorees were:

* Sheso: 2-year-old Filly of the Year

* Thundering Verzy: 2-year-old Colt of the Year

* Sundayblummer: 3-year-old Filly of the Year

* Intervene: 3-year-old Colt of the Year

* Oglala Sue: Older Mare of the Year

* High Dice: Older Horse of the Year

* Powerful Sue, dam of Oglala Sue: Broodmare of the Year

* Blumin Affair, sire of Sundayblummer and Sheso: Stallion of the Year

June O'Neill was recognized as the NTBA Member of the Year for her work with the adoption of retired Thoroughbreds.

The Blood-Horse Julep Cup was awarded to breeder Dennis Kirby for his accomplishments with Nebraska-breds.