New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing, in conjunction with Dean McKenzie, is thrilled to announce applications are now being accepted for the NZTR McKenzie Future Leaders Scholarship 

Jointly funded by NZTR and Dean McKenzie, the Scholarship offers a $10,000 award to support promising students connected to the Thoroughbred racing industry in their educational pursuits. The primary objective is to nurture future leaders for the benefit of New Zealand’s racing industry.

The Scholarship aims to support motivated and passionate individuals who aspire to pursue a Commerce or Law degree at a university in New Zealand.

Dean McKenzie, co-benefactor of the Scholarship, commented on its significance for the future leaders of New Zealand’s racing administration.

“The future success of our industry is heavily influenced by good business decisions being made more often at all levels of our sport, and the greater the skills the people making those decisions have, the better chance we all have of good decisions being made on a more regular basis - that simply benefits everyone.”

“Having a connection and love for Thoroughbred racing is an attribute we simply cannot have enough of at all levels in administration and hopefully this Scholarship can play a role in the future to broaden the number of administrators who have that passion and background,” McKenzie said. 

The Scholarship's inaugural recipient Emma Mathieson was thrilled to be able to put the funds toward her Bachelor of Law at Auckland University of Technology last year and encouraged those thinking of applying not to hesitate. 

"For anyone considering applying that is interested in studying, and also has a love for the Thoroughbred Industry, just go for it," she said.

"Aside from financial support, the potential connections and opportunities are limitless. It could make a real difference in not only your academic results but also pathways that could present after university"

Eligibility criteria include recent high school graduates who have gained acceptance into an accredited New Zealand university for an upcoming academic year, with plans to pursue a Commerce or Law degree.

Applicants must demonstrate a tangible connection to the New Zealand Thoroughbred Industry, whether it be through community involvement, employment, family ties, or other means.

The application deadline is set for Friday 15 November 2024, with the required materials being a cover letter and CV.

NZTR Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Sharrock, is pleased to see the Scholarship target a sought-after demographic within our industry.

“NZTR is pleased to once again be working alongside Dean McKenzie to create new pathways for the future leaders of our industry," Sharrock said.

"Last year's applicants were exceptionally strong, and recipient Emma Mathieson is an excellent example of the young talent around the country."

Legal residency in New Zealand is a prerequisite for eligibility. The selection process involves a review by a Panel, administered by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing.

Applications can be sent directly to NZTR Internal Operations Manager Sam Fursdon via sam.fursdon@nztr.co.nz.

Applications close Friday 15 November 2024

Please download and read the NZTR McKenzie Future Leaders Scholarship Terms and Conditions before submitting your application.