A business and political figure in his native Philippines, Mr Cojuangco has for many years been a leading owner/breeder and patron of racing in Australia.  

At the announcement of the awards in May, Racing NSW chairman John Messara said Mr  Conjuangco has made a major contribution to the industry. 

“[He is] one of the most successful owner/breeders of the last quarter century, who has made a significant contribution to racing,” Mr Messara said. 

The  Filipino businessman’s association with Australian racing goes back to 1959 when he purchased his first horse. 

He acquired his Australian base, Gooree Stud an agglomeration of three historic properties at Mudgee, in 1978 and has since developed and expanded it to 5800 acres. 

Today some 300 horse agist at Gooree, including mares, foals, yearlings and racehorses. 

Racing Australia said Mr Cojuangco’s red and black striped racing colours are known throughout Australia, having been carried by Group 1 winners such as Desert War, Laser Hawk, Mr Murphy, Don Eduardo, Barkada and Snowlands. 

It said he has been an ardent and generous supporter of racing in Australia through his arrangement of significant sponsorships, notably the Australia Jockey Club. 

Champion trainer, Gai Waterhouse congratulated Mr Cojuangco on her website. 

“I must say that under Mr Cojuangco’s watch at Gooree over the last 25 years, the types of horses that are born and bred at the great establishment are second to none,” Ms Waterhouse said. 

“I love purchasing and training Gooree horses and I owe Mr Cojuangco a debt of gratitude. Then there is Desert War. 

“Desert War was exactly the type of racehorse one expects from Gooree Stud. He was big and strong and always gave his all.”