McGrath is Journalist of the Year

Soon to be TDN Columnist Chris McGrath, who formerly wrote on a freelance basis for the TDN and returns to this publication on Jan. 1 in a full-time capacity, was voted Racing Writer of the Year at the 51st annual Horserace Writers & Photographers Association (HWPA) Derby Awards Lunch which took place in London on Monday. The event, held in association with Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club saw McGrath scoop the 'Clive Graham Trophy' for the third time. The TDN's European Editor Emma Berry was also one of the four writers nominated for the prestigious accolade along with the Racing Post's Peter Thomas and Tom Kerr, but it was McGrath, through his work as bloodstock editor of the Racing Post, who gained the most votes. Luke Harvey, the former jump jockey turned presenter was voted Broadcaster Of The Year for his work on At The Races and ITV.

2017 HWPA Derby Awards
Racing Writer of the Year – Chris McGrath
Broadcaster of the Year – Luke Harvey
International Trainer of the Year – Charlie Appleby
Picture of the Year – Megan Ridgwell
Owner of the Year – Khalid Abdullah
Jump Jockey of the Year – Richard Johnson
Racing Reporter of the Year – Marcus Armytage
Flat Trainer of the Year – Aidan O'Brien
Jump Trainer of the Year – Colin Tizzard
Outstanding Achievement – Seamus Buckley
Flat Jockey of the Year – Frankie Dettori
Photographer of the Year – Dan Abraham
HWPA President's Award – David Elsworth