The New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) Board has today confirmed their support for the continuation of Jumps racing as part of the racing programme. This decision follows a process announced in September that included the appointment of a Jumps Racing Review Panel.
The panel resolved to recommend that Jumps racing in New Zealand should continue, but that continuation will need to be supported by several initiatives to ensure the success of the industry, both in the short and long term.
“The panel have taken a comprehensive review of Jumps racing in NZ and whilst the recommendation is for the continuation it is not for jumps racing to continue in its current state, changes do need to be made to give it the best chance to thrive,” said Darin Balcombe, NZTR COO and Jumps Racing Review Panel Chair.
The panel provided 19 individual recommendations with priorities that include:
- Supporting, mentoring and attracting Jumps jockeys
- Reviewing and optimising the Jumps racing calendar
- Enhancing race programming for consistency and competition
- Ensuring fit-for-purpose infrastructure and rules
The panel has also recommended NZTR develop key performance indicators to evaluate Jumps racing’s performance annually and a comprehensive strategic review every three years to ensure objectives and performance are aligned.
NZTR Chairman Russell Warwick applauded the panel for their hard work and collaboration throughout the review process.
“I would like to thank the panel and Alan Galbraith KC for their support throughout this process. Many factors were taken into consideration, and we believe implementing the panel’s recommendations will give Jumps racing the best opportunity to perform at a high-level long term,” he said
“This decision gives the industry the opportunity to reenergize Jumps racing and will make winter racing an exciting prospect into the future.”
The full Jumps Racing Review Panel Recommendations Report can be found using the link below.
NZTR’s implementation process will include creating a framework and outlining KPIs to measure Jumps racing’s performance annually, to be delivered prior to 31 March 2025.
