The 2024 Governor’s Award for Horseperson of the Year was awarded to Al Ochsner for his contributions to the equine industry over several decades. Ochsner accepted the award at the 67th Annual New Jersey Breeders Awards Celebration at the Horse Park of New Jersey.
“Al Ochsner’s dedicated service to the industry and passion for horses makes him an exemplary person to be honored with this award,” NJDA Secretary Ed Wengryn said. “His work with the Standardbred Owners and Breeders Association of New Jersey (SBOANJ) has allowed the state to remain one of the leaders in the industry.”
Ochsner joined SBOANJ as a director in 2006 and became executive administrator in 2016. He played a significant role in strengthening the racing industry through various initiatives, including securing a five-year $100 million state racing appropriation.
Over his career, Ochsner owned and bred more than 100 horses, including Precious Bunny, who earned $2.21 million in 1991 and was named Horse of the Year in both the U.S. and Canada.
Other awards presented included:
- Secretary of Agriculture Award for New Jersey Standardbred Horse of the Year: Tactical Approach.
- New Jersey Sire Stakes Premier Horse of the Year: Voukefalas.
- Secretary of Agriculture Award for New Jersey Thoroughbred Horse of the Year: Book’em Dano.
- Breeder of the Year: Southwind Farms.
- Horse Park of NJ Volunteer of the Year: Dr. Carey Williams.
- New Jersey Youth Horseperson of the Year: McKenzie Jones.
