Aoife Dempsey, Head Girl for Ted and Katie Walsh received the prestigious Irish Racing Excellence Award – the top accolade at the Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards (ITIEA) supported by Godolphin, the Irish Stable Staff Association, HRI Equuip, Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association and the Racing Post. The awards took place in the Keadeen Hotel in County Kildare on Tuesday evening.

Aoife, originally from Kiltullagh in County Galway and now living in Kildare, has worked for Ted and Katie Walsh for three years. Previously, she worked for trainer Ross O’Sullivan for three years before spending some time in Australia. Aoife was recognised for her exceptional work ethic, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest standards within the thoroughbred industry. Her contribution earned widespread respect among the ITIEA judging committee, colleagues and industry professionals alike.

Speaking following the award presentation, Aoife said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive the Irish Racing Excellence Award. Racing is a true team effort, and I’ve been so fortunate to work for Ted and Katie, who I have learned so much from, along with the entire team in the yard. This award means so much to me, I’m still in shock, especially with the calibre of the other winners in the room.”

Over 200 guests from the racing and breeding community gathered to honour and recognise all nine exceptional winners for their outstanding dedication, skill, and passion. The award recipients were recognised across multiple categories, highlighting contributions ranging from stud and stable management to newcomer achievements, administration and ancillary services along with the racecourse award.

The 2026 Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Award individual winners, acknowledged at the award ceremony were:

Ancillary Award: John Wixted, Stall Handler, Horse Racing Ireland, Ballymany, County Kildare

Administration Award: Stephanie Kennedy, Marketing, Client Relations and PA, Ballylinch Stud, Thomastown, County Kilkenny

Newcomer Award:  Michelle Mallon, Stud Hand, Newtown Stud, Naas, County Kildare

Irish Thoroughbred Industry Award winners:
David Christie Jr, Assistant Trainer, David Christie, Derrylin, County Fermanagh
Aoife Dempsey, Head Girl, Ted and Katie Walsh, Kill, County Kildare
Jack Madden, Travelling Head Lad, Gordon Elliott, Longwood, County Meath
Brian Moloney, Head Travelling Lad, John McConnell, Stamullen, County Meath
David Porter, Head Lad, Willie Mullins, Closutton, County Carlow

Racecourse Award: Listowel Racecourse won the Racecourse Award. Chosen by the Irish Stable Staff Association, this accolade recognised the County Kerry racecourse’s exceptional commitment. Based on a quality programme evaluation, all racecourses across Ireland were assessed on various criteria, including the standard of facilities, amenities, and the overall environment provided for the industry's dedicated workforce.

Each of the award winners received a specially commissioned trophy by sculptor Ani Mollereau and €4,000. In addition, for the Newcomer Award, Administration Award and Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Award winners, €2,500 was awarded to their employers to be used for the benefit of each winner’s colleagues.

Along with an Ani Mollereau trophy, Listowel Racecourse received €2,500 to be spent on upgrading facilities that will benefit stable employees.

As the Irish Racing Excellence Award winner, Aoife Dempsey received an additional €5,000 and €2,500 for her employer to be used for the benefit of their work colleagues.

Jimmy Hyland, CEO of Godolphin Ireland, said: “The Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards continue to highlight the vital role played by staff across all sectors of the industry, celebrating the people whose hard work and dedication underpin the ongoing success of Irish racing and breeding on the global stage and Godolphin are extremely proud to be associated with these wonderful awards.

“I would like to congratulate all the deserving winners for their professionalism, excellence, commitment and positive influence among Ireland’s racing and breeding industry – they are all excellent ambassadors for Irish racing.”

Bernard Caldwell from the Irish Stable Staff Association, said: “Congratulations to all of the winners of the Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards. Their dedication, professionalism and passion are at the heart of our industry’s success. Godolphin’s support of these awards along with the collaboration from all industry groups, really help to shine a light on the outstanding contribution made by employees across every sector of Irish thoroughbred breeding and racing, and it was wonderful to see their hard work celebrated on Tuesday evening. I would like to thank all the winners for their commitment and wish everyone continued success in the future.”

Suzanne Eade, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland, commented: “On behalf Horse Racing Ireland, I would like to warmly congratulate all of the winners of the Irish Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, supported by Godolphin. These awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the dedicated people whose hard work, skill and commitment keep our industry moving forward every day. From the early mornings to the long evenings, the staff working in stud farms, racing yards and supporting roles play an essential role in maintaining Ireland’s reputation as a world leader in thoroughbred breeding and racing. The achievements recognised at the awards on Tuesday evening are a credit not only to the winners themselves, but also to the professionalism and passion that exists throughout our industry. Well done to each and every award recipient.”