Local racing writer Keith Paterson has enjoyed a tremendous ‘bolt from the blue’, with his horse racing book being shortlisted for the inaugural Bill Whittaker Award.

The book, entitled ‘The Master’s Touch – Racing with Etienne de Mestre’ is the coming together of a lifelong passion for the Nowra resident.

It has taken him more than six years to write the extremely well-researched tome, which also contains photographs of the horses he had paid tribute to.

“I knew nothing of it until contacted by the organisers, but it’s a great thrill to be short listed to the last 10 books for the award.”

The award winner will be announced next month at a luncheon to be held at the Australian Jockey Club in Randwick.

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FANTASTIC: Keith Paterson has been shortlisted for the Bill Whittaker Award. Photo: ROBERT CRAWFORD