Andrea O’Keeffe wins Rory MacDonald Community Award at Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards

Andrea O’Keeffe speaks to John Blake of Racing Together about her win at last night’s 15th Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower Hotel.

Wife of Middleham-based trainer Jedd O’Keeffe, Andrea’s enthusiasm for education and young people means that she has worked with schools, colleges and racing schools nationwide, as well as Racing to School in order to engage with the next generation of racing staff and fans alike.

The judges said: “‘Andrea has balanced her role supporting the growing training business at Highbeck Lodge with supporting others in all parts of the industry”. The deserving finalists, Debbie Hay from Lingfield Park and Sarah Montgomery from Musselburgh Racecourse were commended for their dedication to connecting with their local communities alongside their demanding racecourse roles.

See more below about what the award means to Andrea, her thoughts on the importance of community engagement and the awards event overall.

Visit the awards website here for further information and to see all the evening’s winners and finalists.