Minding and Aidan O’Brien scoop more prizes

Minding became the first of her sex to win four QIPCO British Champions Series races in one season. Picture: Racingfotos.com

Minding was crowned Horse of the Year at the Horse Racing Ireland Awards at Leopardstown racecourse on Monday.

The exceptional filly became the first of her sex to win four QIPCO British Champions Series races in one season since it was founded.

She won the QIPCO 1000 Guineas, Investec Oaks, Qatar Nassau Stakes and QIPCO-sponsored Queen Elizabeth II Stakes at Ascot. In addition, she also won at the highest level in Ireland.

Her trainer, Aidan O’Brien, lifted the Flat Award and, at the same time, was voted Trainer of the Year at the 50th annual Horserace Writers & Photographers Derby Awards Lunch in London.

O’Brien has won 22 Group 1 wins across the world this year. He enjoyed ten Champions Series triumphs and also saddled the first three home in the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.