Dave Casey was crowned Leading Trainer at The Country Racing Association awards ceremony, held at the International on the Water Hotel at Ascot on Friday 23 October.

Casey, who ended the 2014-15 season on 179 points, defeated Noel Pateman (120) with last year’s champion and brother, Sean Casey (118), finishing in third position.

It was double celebration for Casey after his Oratorio gelding, Wizards Point, claimed Horse of the Year in a tight battle from Cat Five.

Wizards Point, who posted five wins at Meekatharra, Mount Magnet and Broome, defeated Cat Five, prepared by Terry Brennan by one point.

Colin Haddon’s 21 wins, 26 seconds and 17 thirds earned the experienced rider the Leading Jockey title.

Haddon’s biggest prize came in September when he partnered Me Hungi to a barnstorming win in the Carnarvon Cup (2000m).

The Jacqueline Henderson-trained galloper thundered home from near last and scored by one length over, Wayside and Rive Gauche.

Young rider Kate Fitzgerald won an enthralling battle in the Leading Apprentice award with 11 points separating first and fourth.

Fitzgerald, who collected 114 points from her 15 wins, 12 seconds and 20 thirds, won from Casey Hunter (110), Clint Johnston Porter (105) and Randy Tan (103).

2015 Country Racing Association WA Awards:
Leading Trainers Award – Dave Casey
Leading Horse Award – Wizards Point
Leading Jockey Award – Colin Haddon
Leading Apprentice Award – Kate Fitzgerald