1/ST, New Zealand Partner for 'Golden Ticket' Races

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing announced a transformative partnership with 1/ST, a premier North American Thoroughbred racing, gaming and entertainment company. Known for its iconic venues, including Santa Anita Park and Gulfstream Park, 1/ST is a leader in modernizing horse racing by blending live racing with innovative gaming, hospitality and lifestyle experiences. As leaders of world-class racing, hospitality and entertainment events, 1/ST is also committed to advancing racing's global profile through cutting-edge technology and international collaboration. This partnership brings a unique opportunity to connect three prestigious race days: Auckland Thoroughbred Racing's Champions Day (March 8 at Ellerslie Racecourse), alongside 1/ST's Pegasus World Cup (Jan. 25 at Gulfstream Park) and California Crown (Sept. 27 at Santa Anita Park). This collaboration will introduce "Golden Ticket" pathways, offering the winning horses direct entry into marquee races including: From the Pegasus World Cup to Champions Day: The $500,000 Pegasus World Cup Filly and Mare Turf Invitational Stakes (G2T) winner earns entry to the NZ$600,000 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes (G1). The $1 million Pegasus World Cup Turf Invitational Stakes (G1T) winner gains entry to the NZ$1 million New Zealand Stakes (G1). From Champions Day to California Crown: The NZ$500,000 Rich Hill Stud Champion Middle Distance Series winner secures a Golden Ticket to the $750,000 California Crown John Henry Turf (G1T). The NZ$500,000 Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series winner earns entry to the $750,000 California Crown Eddie D Turf Sprint (G2T). To further enhance the partnership, NZTR and 1/ST will cover travel and freight costs for Golden Ticket-winning horses traveling internationally to compete in the respective countries. "This partnership marks an exciting milestone in showcasing New Zealand racing on the world stage," commented NZTR chief operating officer 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 race days 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." This partnership paves the way for significant growth in Thoroughbred racing across both regions, with both NZTR and 1/ST excited to build on this promising foundation moving forward. For more information about the partnership and Golden Ticket races, contact NZTR's Head Handicapper Bruce Sherwin by emailing Bruce.Sherwin@nztr.co.nz.