North American Thoroughbred racing, gaming and entertainment company 1/ST has partnered with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR).
1/ST, known for iconic venues including California’s Santa Anita Park and Florida’s Gulfstream Park, specializes in blending live racing with innovative gaming, hospitality and lifestyle experiences. In the U.S., it works with partners including bet365, and it has also teamed up with the likes of British racing group Arena Racing Company (ARC) and Australian wagering and entertainment firm Tabcorp.
The new partnership connects New Zealand’s Auckland Thoroughbred Racing’s Champions Day in March with 1/ST’s Pegasus World Cup on Jan. 25 at Gulfstream Park and the California Crown on Sept. 27 at Santa Anita.
This collaboration will introduce “Golden Ticket” pathways, offering the winning horses direct entry into marquee races. NZTR and 1/ST will cover travel and freight costs for Golden Ticket-winning horses travelling internationally to compete in the respective countries.
“This partnership marks an exciting milestone in showcasing New Zealand racing on the world stage,” said 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.”
“This partnership with NZTR exemplifies our commitment to elevating Thoroughbred racing globally,” added 1/ST President Aidan Butler. “By linking these iconic racedays and supporting international competition, we’re looking to drive innovation, collaboration and global excitement in the sport.”
The NZTR falls under the purview of TAB New Zealand (TAB NZ), previously known as the New Zealand Racing Board (NZRB). The NZ TAB is operated by Entain Australia and New Zealand.
Lachlan Fitt, deputy CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, said the new partnership with 1/ST 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.”
“Through our Trackside and Sport Nation media brands, we look forward to bringing the best of U.S. racing to our wagering customers in NZ,” he added.
