The Horserace Writers and Photographers Association have confirmed the 2020 Derby Awards will be staged on Sky Sports Racing on Thursday 10th December.
The awards programme, supported by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, will be hosted by Martin Kelly.
The HWPA are unable to stage their annual awards and lunch in London because of the current Covid-19 restrictions and President Marcus Townend said: "We are extremely grateful to Sky Sports Racing for agreeing to host the 2020 Derby Awards, and to the Hong Kong Jockey Club for their continued support.
"It has been a difficult year for racing but we felt it was important that the Derby Awards were still staged in some way so that we could recognise the achievements of the participants and those in the media who broadcast, report and photograph the sport."
Rob Dakin, Head of Racing at Sky Sports Racing, said: “The HWPA Derby Awards is always a highlight of the year. Due to Covid restrictions the usual event can’t take place, so Sky Sports is delighted to support the awards in 2020 with a specially produced programme.”
George Irvine, Commingling Development Director at the Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “These are very difficult times and although it’s a shame we’re not able to meet up for the normal awards ceremony, the Hong Kong Jockey Club are delighted to continue supporting the HWPA Derby Awards on Sky Sports Racing.
“There have been some fantastic performances on the track this year and there are many extremely talented journalists, broadcasters and photographers within racing, so everyone deserves to be recognised for their achievements.
“The Awards fit in perfectly with the Hong Kong International Races at Sha Tin on December 13th where we hope a number of horses will be heading over from the UK and Ireland this year with over £9m in prize money up for grabs.”
