Venetia Williams wins Cheltenham award for ‘outstanding contribution’

Grand National-winning trainer Venetia Williams has been named the winner of Cheltenham Racecourse’s award for Ladies’ Day.

Venetia will receive the “outstanding contribution made by a lady to jump racing” award on Ladies’ Day at the Cheltenham Festival, Thursday 18 March.

Last year Venetia took the Grand National with Mon Mome, and also had two Cheltenham Festival victories among her tally of winners.

“I’m honoured to have been chosen to receive this award, which owes much to the fantastic team that I work with at home and the loyal owners who have supported me over the years since I began training,” said Venetia.

Edward Gillespie, managing director of Cheltenham racecourse added: “I am delighted that after a stellar year in a wonderful career Venetia Williams has been recognised in this way.

“The victory of Mon Mome in last year’s Grand National did as much as anything in the last 12 months to highlight the contribution that women make to the wonderful sport of jump racing and it would be fitting if Venetia was able to add to her Festival tally this week.”

Other ladies on the shortlist were trainers Jessica Harrington and Sally Alner, presenter Clare Balding, Irish racing stalwart Joan Moore and equine therapist Belinda Cullen.

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