Known for its renowned venues, including Santa Anita Park (California) and Gulfstream Park (Florida), 1/ST is a leader in improving horse racing by mixing live racing with innovative gaming, hospitality and way of life experiences.
As leaders of world-class racing, hospitality and home entertainment events, 1/ST is likewise dedicated to advancing racing's worldwide profile through cutting-edge technology and international partnership. This partnership brings a distinct opportunity to connect three prominent racedays: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing's Champions Day (March 8 at Ellerslie Racecourse), along with 1/ST's Pegasus World Cup (January 25 at Gulfstream Park) and California Crown (September 27 at Santa Anita Park).
This partnership will present "Golden Ticket" paths, offering the winning horses direct entry into marquee races including:
From the Pegasus World Cup (25 January 2025) to Champions Day (8 March 2025):
- The US$ 500,000 Group 2 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf (1600m) winner earns entry to the NZ$ 600,000 Group 1 World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes (1600m).
- The US$ 1,000,000 Group 1 Pegasus World Cup Turf (1800m) winner gains entry to the NZ$ 1,000,000 Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m).
From Champions Day (8 March 2025) to California Crown (27 September 2025):
- The NZ$ 500,000 Rich Hill Stud Champion Middle Distance Series winner secures a Golden Ticket to the US$ 750,000 Group 1 California Crown John Henry Turf (2000m).
- The NZ$ 500,000 Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series entry to the US$ 750,000 Group 2 California Crown US$ 750,000 Eddie D Turf Sprint (1300m).
To even more boost the collaboration, NZTR and 1/ST will cover travel and freight expenses for Golden Ticket-winning horses taking a trip internationally to compete in the particular countries.
"This partnership marks an exciting milestone in showcasing New Zealand racing on the world stage," commented Chief Operating Officer of NZTR, Darin Balcombe. "The Golden Ticket concept develops an unique path for worldwide competitors, enriching the experience for racing participants and fans alike."
Aidan Butler, President of 1/ST, included: "This partnership with NZTR exemplifies our dedication to elevating Thoroughbred racing globally. By connecting these iconic racedays and supporting worldwide competition, we're seeking to drive development, cooperation and worldwide enjoyment in the sport."
Lachlan Fitt, Deputy CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, operators of the NZ TAB, also welcomed the statement:
"Congratulations to NZTR and 1/ST on reaching this amazing result. The partnership will continue the chance for NZ racing to be showcased to racing fans globally and is another brand-new pathway for NZ racing participants to consider. And through our Trackside and Sport Nation media brands, we look forward to bringing the very best of US racing to our wagering consumers in NZ."
This collaboration leads the way for significant growth in Thoroughbred racing throughout both regions, with both NZTR and 1/ST excited to build on this promising foundation moving forward.
