Nelson Clemmens addresses the Turf Writers and Broadcasters (Courtesy of John C. Engelhardt/patlangphoto.com)

AmWest Chief Executive Officer Nelson Clemmens addressed the crowd of about 200 assembled for the dinner, which was held at the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory in Louisville, Kentucky.

Clemmens spoke about the key role that members of the media have in delivering not only the news about racing, but also the very heart and soul of the sport, to fans and followers. Thus, much of the public’s interest in, and understanding of, racing can be attributed to how well media members perform their communications duties.

Mike Penna of Horse Racing Radio Network, which AmWest has enthusiastically supported, served as emcee of the dinner and introduced Clemmens. Some of AmWest’s guests attending the event included director Leo Govoni, founder and president of Boston Asset Management who also has invested in racing partnerships managed by Clemmens, and trainer Eddie Kenneally and his wife, Catherine.

Nancy LaSala of the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, with Michael Blowen of Old Friends and Turf Writers and Broacasters President Tom Law (Courtesy of John C. Engelhardt/patlangphoto.com)

Following Clemmens’ talk, each of the award winners took their turn at the microphone, with Terry Wallace, winner of the Mr. Fitz Award typifying the spirit of racing, eliciting laughs and sighs as he recalled some of the landmarks of his life and career at Oaklawn Park. Wallace retired this year as track announcer after 37 seasons but remains connected to Oaklawn as a goodwill ambassador and simulcast host.

The Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, led by Executive Director Nancy LaSala, was honored with the Joe Palmer Award for meritorious service to racing, while Daily Racing Form reporter David Grening earned the Walter Haight Award for career excellence in turf writing.