THE Northern Region of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association staged its annual awards evening at Downpatrick Racecourse recently.

The event was expertly compered by James Griffin, while special guest David Christie added plenty of insight and humour with his reflections on the season and the strength of breeding in the industry in the region.

The depth of quality among the recipients was widely praised throughout the evening, with several attendees commenting on the continued strength and consistency of breeding in the region.

A special mention must go to Small Breeder Award recipient T.J. Adams, breeder of seven individual winners during the 2025/’26 season, including the progressive Panic Attack.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Jeremy Maxwell, in recognition of his longstanding contribution and dedication to the racing and breeding industry.

Award winners

Small Breeder: T.J. Adams

Special Recognition: Patrick Turley

Next Generation Breeders: Joseph Kennedy (Astrazar), Brendan White (Kolkata Knight)

Lifetime Achievement: Jeremy Maxwell

Blacktype winners

Black Caviar Gold, bred by Gerry Corry & Ringfort Stud

Noble Champion, bred by Thomas Foy & Lope De Vega Syndicate

Storming George, bred by Neville Reid

Ma Shantou, bred by Michael & Leonard Cave

Grangeclare West, bred by J.P. King

Scorpio Rising, bred by Danny Doran

Thistle Ask, bred by Graham Duncan

Hello Neighbour, bred by John Yarr

King Of Kingsfield, bred by Patrick Turley

Fountain House, bred by Gerald Travers