New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) supports Waikato Thoroughbred Racing’s (WTR) Members’ unanimous decision to pursue a single racing and training site in the Waikato following the Club’s AGM last night.
NZTR CEO Bruce Sharrock sees this announcement as moving toward a more sustainable Waikato venue option and acknowledges the work that has gone into progressing to this point.
“This is extremely positive progress for WTR and the Racing Industry as whole. Seeing this concept come to life will provide a generational change for the Waikato and the wider Thoroughbred industry.”
“NZTR would like to recognise the hard and detailed work done by the WTR Board and management to date and look forward to providing support as the next steps unfold.” -Bruce Sharrock, NZTR CEO
NZTR Chair Russell Warrick agreed the option to pursue a single racing and training site was a step toward future proofing the industry.
“The decision by WTR and its members to move forward with securing a single, fit-for-purpose Greenfield site is a pivotal moment for the future of the industry in our region.”
“This is a forward-thinking approach that not only ensures the long-term sustainability of racing and training in the Waikato, but also futureproofs the entire ecosystem that supports our horses, trainers, and participants.” -Russell Warrick, NZTR Chairman
The WTR Board identified several factors that contributed to the decision to go for an entirely new site. These include:
- The financial operation of the current sites
- The challenges of training at Cambridge into the future due to new housing developments
- The need for a self-sustaining operation
- Bringing together the expertise and strength of the local racing fraternity into one centralised location
- Creates a fit-for-purpose venue designed for training and racing
- provides a ‘super-hub’ for other horse-related activities and users
- Creating a modern functions and events centre as part of the development that can be used to generate additional income.
WTR has detailed the timeline in their release and a shortlist of venues is expected to be considered in the first quarter of 2025. They will then present a business case to members in October 2025.
The full WTR Media Release can be found here.