The presentation of O Awards, in recognition of the successes on and off the race track, was a refreshing event that enthralled those present at the banquet hall of The O hotel at Koregaon Park in Pune. The hall, filled to capacity, was graced not only by the Racing who's who but also celebrities such as actor and MP Shatrughan Sinha, MP Shri Suresh Kalmadi and film star Jackie Shroff. Shatrughan Sinha gave away the award for excellence in leadership to Dr. Cyrus S Poonawalla who is just completing his second three year term as Chairman of the RWITC. The star-turned-politician, who originally came from Bihar before making his mark as a Bollywood film star, was entertainingly aggressive in his brief address. He mockingly sought the permission to speak in Hindi, taking a dig at the current political scene in the state. "I have great love and respect for Maharashtra and all Maharashtrians," he emphasized on a more serious note, acknowledging the impact Mumbai and Pune have had on his personal career and life. Dr. Poonawalla, while thanking the sponsors for the honour bestowed on him, voiced concern over the various unforeseen issues plaguing the RWITC. Pointing out that these were trying times, he made an appeal to all concerned to co-operate in pulling the club out of its present predicament. Dr. Shashi Jain was felicitated for his contribution as the longest serving Chairman of RWITC. He was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award for his tremendous contribution and astute handling of the Club's affairs. In his absence, his son Mr. Vivek Jain, Chairman of the Stewards and chief of marketing of RWITC, received the Award. Mr. Dady Adenwalla who has a track record of being associated with the Club for over 60 years received the Award for his stupendous contribution to Indian Racing. Dady was a Trainer, Senior Stipendiary steward, Steward of the Meet, and currently, is member of the highest judicial body – The Appeal Board. Touched by the honour, Dady Adenwalla's voice choked with emotion while thanking all concerned for the award. Uttam singh, was given the Award for the Legendary Trainer. This 'fillies' man' who is now 89, proudly received the award and expressed his gratitude. Other awards for professional excellence in various categories were given to Malesh Narredu (Champion Jockey), A M Tograllu (Champion Apprentice jockey), Pesi Shroff (Champion trainer), Our Select (Champion Syndicate), Hugo (Champion Horse), Harish Mehta (Champion Owner), while the Pune Derby winner Phenomenale picked up two honours--Champion Filly/Mare as also Champion Juvenile by a public poll.