Cessnock jockey Robert Thompson and motorcyclist Phil Lovett were inducted into the Hunter Region Sporting Hall of Fame at Newcastle Museum on Sunday.
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It was Thompson’s third great honour in as many months, after being named in the Australian Racing Hall of Fame in May, and on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June.
The Cessnock-born jockey was inducted into the Cessnock City Hall of Fame in 2007 for his contribution to the sport of horse racing.
He had been previously honoured by Cessnock City Council as Sportsman of the Year, and the grandstand at Cessnock racecourse is named in his honour.
Thompson – who won his 11th Jungle Juice Cup at Cessnock last Tuesday – is the only jockey in Australian racing history to ride more than 4000 winners and he is showing no signs of slowing down.
Lovett was also born in Cessnock and is still a resident of the area.
From an early age, he demonstrated a passion and talent for motorcycling which he continues to demonstrate today.
Lovett is arguably the fastest 50-plus road racer in Australia and possibly the world, despite participating in road racing for only five years.
He was also made a member of the Cessnock City Hall of Fame in 2014.
Cessnock Mayor Councillor Bob Pynsent proudly attended the ceremony, and spoke about the success of these local legends.
“These two men are both Cessnock City Hall of Fame inductees and have achieved amazing feats in their respective fields,” Cr. Pynsent said.
“They should be so proud to be receiving yet another accolade for their sporting achievements.
“Both men have had extraordinary careers and we thank them for being shining examples of sporting success in our community.”
The Hunter Region Sporting Hall of Fame is now in its 24th year and contains 340 athletes.
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