FOR THEIR “significant roles in the horse racing industry” last year, four prominent horseowners and a great jockey were commended by the Philippine Racing Commission during its first board meeting a few days ago.
Lawyer Narciso O. Morales made it to the honor list as the Most Reputable Horseowner, an award bestowed on him for his drive against the ills plaguing the sport and his passion to play the game fair and square.
“Our drive to fight illegal bookies didn’t go unnoticed. I thank the board (Philracom) for the honor,” said Morales, a successful bus transportation businessman whose stable includes Kukurukuku Paloma, Honeywheresmypants and Gentle Irony.
The unanimous pick as Best Breeder and Owner was Mandaluyong Mayor Benhur C. Abalos Jr., owner of Hagdang Bato, local racing’s most victorious runner with almost P30 million in winnings.
The others cited by the board headed by chair Angel Castano Jr. were Joseph Dyhengco and SC Stockfarms, Inc. as Most Promising Breeders, Jonathan Hernandez as Best Jockey, Ruben Tupas as Best Trainer, the 6th Mayor Ramon D. Bagatsing racefest as the Most Successful Racing Festival and Manila Horsepower Inc. as the Most Supportive Private Organization.
Morales is a popular, well-loved owner whose horses are described by Bayang Karerista as “always out to win.”
Morales is also a consistent high finisher in winnings. As of November, he’s running a fighting third to Patrick Uy and Putch Puyat with 66 first, 82 second, 77 third and 66 fourth place finishes.