Margaret Lee was presented with the prestigious Pearl Kelly Award at the Victorian Harness Racing Awards held at Melton Entertainment Park. The award, bestowed annually by The Angelique Club, recognizes outstanding contributions to the harness racing industry by women. Past recipients include Marg Watson, Anne-Maree Conroy, and Georgie Coram. The award is named in honor of Pearl Kelly, Australia’s first licensed reinswoman in 1916.
Coming from a family deeply rooted in harness racing, Margaret Lee’s journey in the sport began in 2000. Her father, Harold Craven, and brother, Peter, were prominent figures in the industry. Since her debut win with Melita at Terang, Lee has established herself as a leading trainer with an impressive track record.
Throughout her career, Lee has claimed notable victories with horses like Jilliby Nitro and Jilliby Jitterbug, showcasing her prowess as a trainer. Her accomplishments include training top performers such as Jilliby Kung Fu, Keayang Cullen, Keayang Steamer, and Code Bailey, among others.
In 2023, Lee reached a milestone by qualifying three runners for the Inter Dominion Trotting Final. Her partnership with son Paddy has been instrumental in their success, highlighted by Keayang Zahara’s exceptional performance, boasting a stellar record of 15 wins out of 16 races, including seven Group 1 victories.
Lee’s training career has been marked by over 760 wins, 13 Group 1 titles in Australia, 2 in New Zealand, and over $7.5 million in earnings. Her family’s unwavering support, with husband Damien and son Jason playing key roles, has been crucial to her success. Nephew Glen and a dedicated team at home have also been integral to her achievements.
Her dedication to excellence, family values, and commitment to the sport have solidified Margaret Lee’s legacy as a deserving recipient of the 2024 Pearl Kelly Award. Her impact on harness racing extends beyond her accolades, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
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