On Thursday night in Palm Beach, Fla., Sovereignty was honored as both Horse of the Year and the top 3-year-old colt during the Eclipse Awards ceremony. Trainer Bill Mott, who guided Sovereignty to victories in the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, claimed the Trainer of the Year title.
Sovereignty notably skipped the Preakness Stakes amid the Triple Crown series but secured a win at the Belmont Stakes. Unfortunately, the colt had to pull out of the Breeders’ Cup Classic due to a fever.
The 55th Annual Eclipse Awards took place at the Breakers Hotel, where Ted Nophy was recognized as the 2-year-old colt of the year after an undefeated season that included a Breeders’ Cup Juvenile win. Trained by Todd Pletcher, Ted Nophy is among the early favorites for the upcoming Kentucky Derby in May.
Ted Nophy began his career with a win at Saratoga in August and dominated the Hopeful Stakes in New York by 8 1/2 lengths. He then captured the Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland by nearly three lengths and finished his 2025 season strong with a one-length victory in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Del Mar.
In other award categories, Flavien Prat received the Best Jockey Award, while Pietro Moran was named Apprentice Jockey of the Year. Godolphin LLC, representing Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s global racing and breeding operations, was honored as both Owner and Breeder of the Year.
Japanese-bred Forever Young was recognized as the leading older dirt stallion. Danno was noted as a top male sprinter, while British stallion Notable Speech earned acclaim as the best turf sire.
Among female horses, Super Corredora took home 2-year-old filly honors, Nitrogen was selected for 3-year-old filly, and Torpedo Anna won in the older female category. Shiso Spicy was the top female sprinter, and Seafields Pretty was awarded the best turf filly title. Cool Jet won the Steeplechase Horse award.
The Eclipse Awards, named after the famous 18th-century racehorse Eclipse, are determined by votes from members of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Daily Racing Form, and national turf writers and broadcasters.
Fan Take: This year’s Eclipse Awards spotlight both dominant young talent and seasoned champions, signaling an exciting future for horse racing enthusiasts. Recognizing standout horses and trainers not only celebrates excellence but also helps attract new fans, ensuring the sport’s vibrant legacy continues.
