THE ITBA Northern Region awards were held last Friday and there were two surprises on the night. Frank and Rose Boyd were feted for their association with the recently retired Hurricane Fly, while Felix Talbot, breeder of Un Temps Pour Tout, was acknowledged for the gelding’s win in the French Champion Hurdle.

The ITBA chairman Derek Iceton and the region’s chairman Denis MacAuley both addressed the large gathering, and the awards were hosted by Richard Pugh.

The Coolmore two-year-old prize went to Norfolk Stakes winner Baitha Alga, bred by Theresa Killen. The Goffs and DBS award was won by Stonethorn Stud Farms Ltd for Shamson. Brian Kennedy bred the leading older horse Gabrial. ITM sponsored the award for leading overseas horse and Dean Harron took this for Pure Champion. Andy Oliver collected the award for leading trainer on the flat.

The Irish Field award for leading point-to-point handler was presented by Leo Powell to Noel McParlan on behalf of his father Sean, while the leading point-to-pointer was Without Wings, bred by James McMullan. Stuart Crawford won the NH trainer’s award.

Patrick Collins bred the Cheltenham winner The Druids Nephew, while Rose Boyd was honoured for Cheltenham and Punchestown winner Killultagh Vic.

The top-rated NH performer was The New One and he was bred in partnership by Ronnie Brown and Ballylinch Stud. Fiona McStay won for Glens Melody who collected awards sponsored by Tattersalls Ireland and Weatherbys Ireland.