New Zealand Bloodstock Insurance, in association with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, has announced three new Triple Crown Series for the 2019-20 New Zealand racing season.
Each series comprises three prestigious Group races, and each series will carry a bonus of $100,000 for any horse that can win all three races.
The new initiative includes a weight-for-age, sprint, and fillies and mares series.
The Weight-For-Age Triple Crown begins with the Gr.1 Cambridge Stud Zabeel Classic (2000m) at Ellerslie on December 26, followed by the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa on February 8, and the Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) at Ellerslie on March 7.
The Sprint Triple Crown comprises of the Gr.1 Sistema Railway (1200m) at Ellerslie on January 1, the Gr.1 JR & N Berkett Telegraph (1200m) at Trentham on January 18, and the Gr.1 BCD Group Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa on February 8.
The third Series is the Fillies and Mares Triple Crown, made up of the Gr.3 Cuddle Stakes (1600m) at Trentham on March 14, the Gr.1 Fiber Fresh New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Te Aroha on April 4, and the Gr.2 Travis Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa on April 25.
New Zealand Bloodstock’s managing director Andrew Seabrook believes the new Triple Crowns will provide a vital and timely boost to the New Zealand thoroughbred industry.
“New Zealand Bloodstock, through its Insurance Division, is delighted to be offering these three significant bonuses,” he said.
“In a time of stagnant prizemoney, I’m sure this announcement will be welcome news for stakeholders.
“I would like to particularly thank NZTR for its support, along with the Auckland Racing Club, Waikato Racing Club, and Wellington Racing Club, who have all contributed financially. The Cambridge Jockey Club is also likely to confirm their support early this week.
“NZB Insurance has been a significant sponsor of New Zealand racing, so thanks go to our hard-working insurance team and our very supportive underwriters in the UK.”
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s chief executive Bernard Saundry has also welcomed the concept.
“We are delighted to partner with New Zealand Bloodstock Insurance on the Triple Crown Series,” Saundry said.
“The series will be a fantastic addition to the 19/20 racing calendar. We appreciate the support New Zealand Bloodstock provides to thoroughbred racing in New Zealand and their innovative thinking. Concepts such as this will continue to make a significant difference to our industry.”
