Arcadia, CA -- (Sports Network) - Golf legend Gary Player has been awarded the first ever Breeders' Cup Sports and Racing Excellence Award.

The Breeders' Cup Sports and Racing Excellence Award honors an individual who has established a career of excellence in a chosen profession and also maintains a passionate interest as an owner, breeder or participant in the Thoroughbred racing industry.

"I am chuffed at being selected for this inaugural award," said Player from his stud farm in South Africa, "and delighted to accept it on behalf of all horse lovers around the world. If I had to choose golf over horses, I would miss my clubs."

Gary Player Stud Farm is recognized throughout the world for breeding high quality thoroughbred race horses. The farm, which covers 20,000 acres, has been in operation since 1974 and has produced many stakes winners including Pinehurst, World Over, Foreign Source, Kadarko, Foolish Pride, Creator and Superwood.

"Demonstrating that same commitment to excellence which made him the world's greatest international golfer, Gary's outstanding success as a thoroughbred breeder and passionate supporter of horse racing makes him an extraordinary first recipient of our Sports and Racing Award," said Breeders' Cup President and CEO Greg Avioli.

"On behalf of our board, the racing industry and Gary's many fans and followers around the world, we are extremely proud to present him with this honor at the Breeders' Cup."

The Sports and Racing Excellence Award will be presented to Gary Player at Santa Anita Park on Thursday, November 5. The award itself is a Steuben crystal.