TRM Performance of the Season Awards Return for a Second Year at Naas

Cast your vote and enter for a chance to win four Golden Tickets and an exclusive TRM prize!

A last-gasp Group 3 victory, a remarkable 1,733/1 double and the emergence of an Irish Oaks-placed filly are among the achievements shortlisted for the 2026 TRM Performance Awards at Naas Racecourse.

Returning for a second year following the success of the inaugural awards, the online public vote gives racing fans the opportunity to choose the TRM Riding Performance of the Season and the TRM Training Performance of the Season.

Six nominees have been shortlisted for their standout achievements during the 2026 season, with voting now open at https://naasracecourse.com/competition/

The nominees for the TRM Riding Performance of the Season are:

Gary Carroll – Chantez
Gary Carroll produced a perfectly timed late challenge aboard the Ger Lyons-trained Chantez, getting up on the line to land the Group 3 Ballyogan Stakes at odds of 28/1. Watch the replay here.

Ronan Whelan – Wannabe Royale
Ronan Whelan partnered Wannabe Royale to victory on Royal Ascot Trials Day, completing a remarkable 1,733/1 double on the day for trainer Henry de Bromhead. Watch Wannabe Royale here

Siobhan Rutledge – Gotta Catch’em All
Siobhan Rutledge delivered a confident front-running performance aboard Gotta Catch’em All, making all to secure an impressive victory. Watch the replay here.

The nominees for the TRM Training Performance of the Season are:

Jim Bolger – Sparán Nua
After winning her maiden at Naas, Sparán Nua developed into one of the season’s leading fillies. She went on to win the Group 3 Darley Munster Oaks, finish third in the Irish Oaks and come within a short head of defeating Kalpana in the Group 1 Yorkshire Oaks.

Eddie Lynam – Keke
Eddie Lynam enjoyed a highly successful campaign at Naas with Keke, who recorded two victories at the track during the 2026 season.

Sheila Lavery – Maeda Matsu
Following an eye-catching second-place finish on debut in the Ballyhane Stakes, Maeda Matsu returned to Naas to win an Irish EBF Median Sires Series Fillies Maiden, providing Sheila Lavery with her first winner of the season.

The winning jockey and trainer will each receive €1,000 worth of TRM products. Voting closes on Tuesday, 6th October, with the results announced during Day 2 of the October Weekend Flat Season Finale on Sunday, 11th October.

Everyone who casts a vote will also be entered into a draw to win a prize package featuring four Golden Tickets for the October Weekend, a TRM jacket and hats, and a €50 TRM voucher.

Each Golden Ticket includes admission, a racecard, a €10 food voucher, a €5 free bet and a €5 drink voucher.

Speaking about the return of the awards, Aidan McGarry, General Manager of Naas Racecourse, said:

“Following the success of last year’s online awards, we are delighted to bring them back for a second year and once again give racing supporters the final say. Each nominee has provided us with a memorable story, whether through an outstanding ride on the day or a training performance that formed part of a much wider season of success.

“We are very grateful to TRM for helping us recognise these achievements and for their continued commitment to trainers, jockeys and stable staff throughout Irish racing.”

Enda Kelly, CCO of TRM, added: “TRM are delighted to sponsor the Training and Riding performance of the Season for a second year running at Naas.  Giving something small back to the racing industry which has supported our business for over 37 years now is key to everyone at TRM.”

The October Weekend will also bring the TRM Best Turned Out League to a close, recognising the consistently high standards and dedication of stable staff throughout the season. The winning yard will receive a €1,000 TRI Equestrian Store voucher and a celebratory breakfast morning at the yard.

TRM will also sponsor the TRM Calphormin – Strong Foundation, Strong Future Apprentice Handicap on the final day of the flat season at Naas. If the winning apprentice does not already have a sponsorship agreement, they will receive an exclusive one-year sponsorship with TRM, including branded riding gear and apparel.

The initiative has already provided valuable support to emerging riders, with Darragh O’Sullivan and Sadhbh Tormey among its previous winners. It reflects TRM’s continued commitment to supporting young talent and creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation of Irish jockeys.

Cast your vote at https://naasracecourse.com/competition/

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