The eight finalists for this year’s SIS/Racing Post Betting Shop Manager of the Year competition have now been revealed.
Having progressed from a shortlist of 15 outstanding managers, the finalists will now go forward to the grand final, where the winner will be crowned at the prestigious awards lunch at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London on Monday, 9 November.
As part of the judging process, the panel met all shortlisted managers in Nottingham last week. Judges also reviewed each manager’s interview with Derek Thompson, alongside reports from independent mystery shopper visits.
In a unique moment for this year’s competition, the Final Eight were announced this morning through a special draw conducted by 49’s presenter Daniel and shown in betting shops nationwide. The draw not only revealed the managers who had secured a place in the final but also determined the order in which they will appear before the judges.
Each finalist will attend a question-and-answer session with the judging panel, accompanied by a key member of their shop team.
The judging panel features representatives from across the racing and betting industries, including Richard Hayler (IBAS), Alan Delmonte (Levy Board), Helen Scott (SIS) and Alan Pepperell (RMG).
This year’s winner will follow in the footsteps of current champion Tracey Mooney and enjoy a memorable year as title holder, with invitations to some of the racing and betting industry’s most prestigious events.
The final eight
Aundrea Augustine, Paddy Power, Hounslow
Mark Drysdale, William Hill, Glasgow
Mark Fanning, BoyleSports, Thurles
Gemma Grundon, Coral, Carlisle
Joe Robinson-Hale, William Hill, Liverpool
Katie Rolph, Betfred, Newmarket
Chris Vause, Coral, Goole
Joanne Wilson, Paddy Power, Boston
