A significant decision has been reached regarding the establishment of a new racing Club, named Waikato Thoroughbred Racing (WTR), following the official merger approval between Waikato Racing Club, Cambridge Jockey Club, and Waipa Racing Club.

The amalgamation was endorsed by the Board and members of all three Clubs during their respective Special General Meetings (SGMs), with the intention of bringing extensive benefits to the racing region of the Waikato.

The merger will take effect on August 1 2023.

The overwhelming majority of members present at the three SGM’s voted in favour of the merger, as they firmly believe that this formation will give rise to a robust and well-resourced super Club in New Zealand’s largest thoroughbred racing and breeding region.

At the helm of the merger is Waikato Racing Club Chairman, John Elstob, who as the WTR Working Group Chair commented on the formation of Waikato Thoroughbred Racing.

“Collectively, the merger of the three Clubs places the newly formed Club in a significantly better position to accomplish our primary objectives, surpassing the capabilities of any individual Club or combination of two Clubs, he said.

“The merged Club will have improved scale and strength, as well as the flexibility to advance its racing and training operations.

“These positive effects will extend beyond the Club itself, benefiting the racing industry throughout the entire country.

The amalgamation is strongly supported by both the Cambridge Jockey Club and Waipa Racing Club.