New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and 1/ST Announce Strategic Partnership

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) has entered into a strategic partnership with 1/ST, a leading North American company specializing in Thoroughbred racing, gaming, and entertainment. 1/ST is well-known for its high-profile venues, including Santa Anita Park in California and Gulfstream Park in Florida. The company has made significant strides in modernizing horse racing by integrating live racing with innovative gaming, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences.

As part of the partnership, NZTR and 1/ST aim to elevate the global profile of Thoroughbred racing by leveraging cutting-edge technology and fostering international collaboration. This collaboration will focus on linking three major racedays: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing’s Champions Day at Ellerslie Racecourse (March 8, 2025), the Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park (January 25, 2025), and the California Crown at Santa Anita Park (September 27, 2025).

The partnership introduces “Golden Ticket” pathways, granting winning horses direct entry into prestigious races across these events. Notable entries include:

• The winner of the US$500,000 Group 2 Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf (1600m) will earn entry to the NZ$600,000 Group 1 World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) on Champions Day.
• The US$1,000,000 Group 1 Pegasus World Cup Turf (1800m) winner will secure a spot in the NZ$1,000,000 Group 1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m).
• The NZ$500,000 Rich Hill Stud Champion Middle Distance Series winner will earn a Golden Ticket to the US$750,000 Group 1 California Crown John Henry Turf (2000m) on September 27, 2025.
• The NZ$500,000 Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series winner will gain entry to the US$750,000 Group 2 California Crown Eddie D Turf Sprint (1300m).

Additionally, NZTR and 1/ST will cover travel and freight costs for the Golden Ticket-winning horses traveling internationally to compete in these marquee events. This partnership represents a significant move to strengthen global connections within Thoroughbred racing, benefiting both the participating horses and the broader racing community.

“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 creates a unique pathway for international competition, enriching the experience for racing participants and fans alike.”

Aidan Butler, President of 1/ST, added: “This partnership with NZTR exemplifies our commitment to elevating Thoroughbred racing globally. By linking these iconic racedays and supporting international competition, we’re looking to drive innovation, collaboration and global excitement in the sport.”

Lachlan Fitt, Deputy CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, operators of the NZ TAB, also welcomed the announcement: “Congratulations to NZTR and 1/ST on reaching this exciting outcome. The partnership will continue the opportunity for NZ racing to be showcased to racing fans globally and is another new pathway for NZ racing participants to consider. And through our Trackside and Sport Nation media brands, we look forward to bringing the best of US racing to our wagering customers in NZ.”