The finalists for the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards–in seven categories and representing a cross-section of industry workers–were announced Thursday. The second and final round of judging will take place Oct. 20, when finalists will participate in in-person interviews with the judging panel. Winners of the Katherine McKee Administration Award, Dedication to Breeding Award, Dedication to Racing Award, Managerial Award, Community Award, and Support Services Award will each receive $7,500, while the remaining two finalists in each category will receive $3,500. The Newcomer Award winner will receive $5,000, with the other two finalists receiving $2,500 each. Kentucky Downs/KHBPA returns as the program's travel sponsor, helping offset transportation and lodging costs for out-of-town finalists attending the awards in October.