2024 Alberta Thoroughbred Industry Award Winners Celebrated at the 51st Night of Champions The achievements of Alberta’s Thoroughbred industry were proudly recognized on Saturday, May 3, as the new racing season kicked off at Century Mile Racetrack and Casino. More than 130 owners, breeders, trainers, and passionate fans gathered in the Triple Crown Suites for the annual Night of Champions celebration. Against the backdrop of a thrilling day of live racing — and the excitement of the Kentucky Derby — Alberta’s top Thoroughbreds and their connections were honored for their success during the 2024 season. With champions crowned and the starting gates open, the 2025 season began in true Alberta racing style.

The Princess of the Track is now Queen of the Hill. Absolutely marvelous, Big Hug was named Alberta’s Horse Of the Year Saturday at the annual Night of Champions Awards dinner at Century Mile. Also named Alberta’s 2024 Champion Older Mare and Champion Alberta-bred, Big Hug won six of her eight starts in Alberta last year capturing the Founders Distaff, CTHS Sales stake, the Fall Classic Distaff and the R.K. ‘Red’ Smith Handicap for owner/trainer Rick Hedge and Lori and Martin Neyka’s Empire Equestrian. Purchased by Hedge for just $3,400 at the Alberta Yearling Sale, the now-five-year-old mare won $175,500 last year and $354,000 in her career. Big Hug was sired by Mr. Big and is out of the mare Temeeku, who broke her maiden for no tag at Del Mar, California. “Best horse I’ve ever trained,” said Hedge, 76, who has trained many outstanding thoroughbreds in his career and many more as a jockey.

The Western Canadian Derby Series is back and bigger than ever for 2025! 🏇 $100,000 Derby Bonus for any 3-year-old who sweeps the Manitoba Derby (Aug 4), Canadian Derby (Aug 23), and BC Derby (Sept 13) – now all back in the lineup! 💰 Plus, a $25,000 Owner-Trainer Bonus is up for grabs based on points earned across all three races #horseracingalberta #albertaracing #ridersup #FeelTheRush #bestinthewest