Harness Racing New Zealand is launching “Paddock to Podium,” a new breeding incentive starting January 1, 2026, aimed at boosting the local foal crop and supporting breeders. The scheme offers breeders a 5% credit on prize money won by New Zealand-foaled 2 to 6-year-old horses placing 1st to 4th in most races, with a fixed $1000 split among breeders for Group and Listed races. These credits can be applied toward stallion service fees and semen transport costs, encouraging reinvestment into breeding. The program is expected to cost around $1.4 million annually and will run for five years, subject to budget.

This initiative complements other recent programs such as the Entain 2YO Bonus, Fillies and Mares Credit Scheme, Silk Road series, and Harness 5000 races, collectively representing a $3.4 million investment in New Zealand breeding. The scheme emphasizes credits rather than cash reimbursements, with clear guidelines on breeder eligibility, co-ownership arrangements, and special circumstances like early payments or pregnancy losses. HRNZ aims to place breeders at the heart of the sport, incentivizing increased breeding activity to sustain and grow the quality and quantity of New Zealand’s harness racing progeny.