Anthony Honeyball’s stable team has been crowned the winner of Newton Abbot Racecourse’s inaugural Best Turned Out Award, taking home a £5,000 prize to be shared among the team.
The award was introduced for the 2026 racing season to recognise the care, skill and dedication that goes into presenting horses in the best possible condition on raceday, while rewarding the hard work of stable staff behind the scenes.
Throughout the season, the groom responsible for each race’s Best Turned Out horse received £60, while their training yard earned a point towards the overall competition. The yard with the highest points total at the end of the season secured the £5,000 prize.
The competition was closely contested, with Anthony Honeyball’s team holding the top spot for several weeks before establishing an unassailable lead by the final fixture.
The prize was presented to Anthony and head lass Kirstie at Newton Abbot’s season finale on Wednesday 28th October, bringing the inaugural competition to a celebratory close.
John Baker, Chief Executive of Newton Abbot Racecourse, said: “We wanted to recognise the people behind the horses and reward the hard work that goes into presenting them in the best possible condition on raceday. Stable staff put an enormous amount of care, time and expertise into their work, and we felt it was important to find a meaningful way to celebrate that.
“Congratulations to Anthony and his whole team. The £5,000 prize recognises their collective efforts and the fantastic standards they have maintained throughout the season.”
Congratulations to Anthony, Kirstie and the entire team on their success, and thank you to all the yards and grooms who took part throughout the season. The award has helped shine a light on the people whose dedication plays such an important role in our sport.
We look forward to bringing the competition back for another season in 2027!