At the 2026 New Zealand Racecourse Managers Association Conference, Brent was recognised with the NZRMA Contribution to Racing Award, an honour that reflected not only his professional contribution, but also the relationships, loyalty and support he has provided to racecourse managers and the wider industry over many years.

The presentation, delivered by NZRMA Chair Jason Fulford, mixed humour with genuine appreciation, capturing the regard in which Brent is held throughout racing.

“He has always been a supporter of track managers, stuck up for us, spoken for us, worked for us,” Jason told the conference.

Brent’s connection to racing began early, attending races with his mother at Hawke’s Bay as a 10-year-old before taking on a stable hand role while at Massey University as a teenager with Peter and Nikki Hurdle, then starting as an Assistant Racing Manager and on to Racing Manager at Awapuni.

Over time, Brent became deeply involved in supporting racecourse managers across the country, eventually taking on the role of secretary to the NZRMA in 2012.

The award presentation highlighted not only Brent’s contribution to the industry, but also the personality and camaraderie he has brought to the racing community over the years.

“Conferences wouldn’t be the same without him,” Jason said. “At some point he’s sorted a room, opened a bar earlier than planned, or helped steer plenty of chairmen through a conference.”

Accepting the award, Brent said he was genuinely surprised by the recognition after being “led down the garden path” into believing no presentation was taking place.

Reflecting on his time working alongside racecourse managers, Brent said the support and connection within the group had meant a great deal to him, particularly during difficult periods personally and professionally.

“It’s tough out there,” Brent said. “You’ve got to talk to others and encourage each other to talk to each other. At the end of the day, you’ve got to back each other up because you all do a great job.”

Brent also acknowledged the various NZRMA committees and chairs he had worked alongside over the years, saying the annual conference had always been one of the highlights of his year.

While much of Brent’s work has happened quietly in the background, the recognition at the NZRMA Conference served as a reminder of the important role people like him play in supporting the industry and the people within it.

“It’s a wonderful industry to work in,” Brent said. “People looking from the outside sometimes just don’t realise the work that goes in behind the scenes.”