New Chairman elected for HRNZ

Ken Spicer, who has served the past two years in the vice-chairman role, will replace Gary Allen who stood down from the role last season.

Spicer said the opportunity to be at the helm of the Harness Racing New Zealand board was something he was very proud of.

“I am privileged and honoured to have been elected to the position of Chairman of Harness Racing New Zealand,” Spicer said.

Spicer’s involvement in the industry runs deep and spans back over a lifetime of involvement.

A member of the Harness Racing New Zealand board for the past five years, he was encouraged to initially stand for a seat by former Chairman, Jim Wakefield.

Currently a marketing manager for one of New Zealand’s largest timber processing companies, Spicer initially cut his teeth in the industry through family involvement.

He has been involved with the Banks Peninsula Trotting Club for 25 years and served as their President and also Treasurer and is still an active member on the committee while he also a current member of the New Zealand Sires’ Stakes Board.

Along with his wife Anne-Marie, Spicer runs the successful Rosedale Farm which currently boasts a broodmare band of 17 and are prominent players at the annual Yearling Sales having achieved nine lots who have surpassed $100,000 in the ring.

The Spicer's are also active owners within the industry with shares currently in five racehorses including the talented pacer Maverick who enjoyed a great 12 months last season – winning six races from the Nigel McGrath stable.
Heading into his new role, Spicer is conscious of the demands of the role, but is looking forward to stepping up to the challenges and striving for good results for the harness racing industry.

“I’m looking forward to leading the industry to work cohesively to achieve change,” he said.

“I am well aware of the challenges ahead , but equally aware of the opportunities.

“Having established a close and positive working relationship with both the CEO and Chair of the New Zealand Racing Board, and together with their board and those of the codes, we are all determined to realise these opportunities and to return the financial benefits to the racing industry.”

Blenheim based owner, breeder and administrator, Brian Wastney has been elected into the role of vice-chairman.

 

HRNZ