NZTR And 1/ST Offer Golden Ticket Pathways Beginning With Pegasus Races

[Wandering Eyes]

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) is collaborating with 1/ST Racing to offer a set of “Golden Ticket” pathways between key races at Gulfstream Park, Santa Anita Park and Ellerslie Racecourse in New Zealand, the Kiwi governing body said via a press release Wednesday.

The series will begin with 1/ST's Pegasus World Cup at Gulfstream Park Jan. 25, then move to Auckland Thoroughbred Racing's Champions Day at Ellerslie Racecourse Mar. 8 and conclude with California Crown Day at Santa Anita Park Sept. 27.

The collaboration will offer the winning horses direct entry into marquee races including:

From the Pegasus World Cup (Jan. 25) to Champions Day (Mar. 8):

• GII Pegasus World Cup Filly & Mare Turf winner gains entry to the NZ$600,000 G1 World Pool New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes (1600m).
• GI Pegasus World Cup Turf winner earns entry to the NZ$1,000,000 G1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m).

From Champions Day (Mar. 8) to California Crown (Sept. 27):

• NZ$500,000 Rich Hill Stud Champion Middle Distance Series winner gains entry into the GI California Crown John Henry Turf Championship Stakes.
• NZ$500,000 Sport Nation Champion Sprint Series winner earns entry to the GII California Crown Eddie D Turf Sprint Stakes.

The 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,” said 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.”

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

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