We are thrilled to announce the launch of the second year of the Awards for Young Writers on Horseracing on Monday 16th September 2024! The awards are open to young people aged 11 to 25 in the UK, for entries on horseracing subjects.

The Awards follow the Martin Wills Prize which ran for a number of years and launched the career of horseracing journalist and podcaster, Nick Luck (also a Trustee of the National Horseracing Museum).

All finalists and their participating settings will receive a Certificate of Participation. Thanks to the Wilmington Trust, our sponsors, there are two categories with generous prizes for winning entries:

  • 16-25 years £500 up to 1200 words
  • 11-15 years £250 up to 700 words

The closing date for entries will be midnight on 14th January 2024.

By taking part, young people will develop research skills and explore sports journalism writing styles and the winning entries will be published in the Racing Post.

Submitted essays will be judged by a range of specialists from the media, horseracing industry and the Wilmington Trust, including David Milnes from the Racing Post, Oli Bell from ITV Racing. The judging panel will be looking for winning entries showing journalistic skill, original content and exciting stories on horseracing subjects or current or past races.

A prize ceremony for shortlisted entries and winners will be held at the National Horseracing Museum in Newmarket with complimentary family passes to visit the museum in 2025.

Entries from children aged 11 and 12 years must be accompanied by a parent/guardian permission form.

To enter your submission or to find out more, email essayprize@nhrm.co.uk

To submit or enquire follow the link.

Parent/Guardian Permission Form

If your child is between 11-12 years of age, please complete the form below.

Parent/Guardian Submission Form

Terms & Conditions

Find below the terms and conditions for the essay awards.

Terms & Conditions 2024

Schools/Groups Submission Form

To submit your school or group essays, please complete the form below.

School/Group Submission Form