Manila, Philippines – In a splendid event held at the Manila Diamond Hotel Grand Ballroom on January 29, Leyte Vice Governor Leonardo “Sandy” Javier Jr. was honored with the title of Horse Owner of the Year at the San Miguel Corporation-Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Awards. This recognition marks the inaugural presentation of the award, celebrating Javier’s significant contributions and steadfast commitment to horseracing, which have notably influenced the sport’s landscape in the Philippines.
The PSA Annual Awards, hosted by the country’s oldest media organization, pay tribute to the top achievers in Philippine sports over the previous year.
“It is a genuine privilege to be recognized alongside world champions like PSA Athlete of the Year EJ Obiena,” Javier remarked.
In 2023, Javier’s horses, including Robin Hood, Magtotobetsky, and Vavavoom, distinguished themselves, with Vavavoom capturing the 2023 PSA Cup in September.
Javier’s reputation extends beyond ownership; he is also celebrated as one of the Philippine horseracing industry’s most esteemed breeders.
The PSA Awards also spotlighted other notable achievements, naming Big Lagoon as Horse of the Year after its victory in the most coveted race, the Philracom-PCSO Presidential Gold Cup, and John Alvin Guce as Jockey of the Year.