Racing Tauranga is delighted to announce the continuation of the trainers’ incentive associated with the Group 2 Ultimate Mazda Japan Trophy, to be staged as part of Bayleys International Raceday on Saturday, 14 March 2026.
Following the success of last year’s initiative, the winning trainer of the Group 2 feature will once again receive an exclusive trip for two to Tokyo to watch the New Zealand Trophy Exchange Race at Nakayama Racecourse in April 2026, a reciprocal race that cements Racing Tauranga’s long-standing partnership with the Japan Racing Association (JRA).
New for this season, Air New Zealand has come on board as a valued partner, providing Premium Economy flights direct from Auckland to Tokyo for the winning trainer and their guest.
Racing Tauranga Chairman Michael Bayly said the Club was proud to be extending this incentive, which acknowledges both the race’s prestige and the support of New Zealand’s training community.
“The Ultimate Mazda Japan Trophy is one of the highlights of the Racing Tauranga calendar and represents more than 50 years of partnership between Racing Tauranga and the JRA,” Bayly said.
“We’re pleased to be able to continue rewarding New Zealand trainers who support the race with an experience that goes beyond the racetrack.
“Thanks to Air New Zealand and our other partners, the winning trainer and their guest will enjoy a world-class trip, travelling in comfort, staying at the five-star Palace Hotel, and seeing firsthand the passion and professionalism that defines Japanese racing.”
The trip includes a welcome dinner hosted by the JRA, a guided tour of the world-renowned Miho Training Centre, and a raceday experience at Nakayama Racecourse, where delegates from the JRA, New Zealand Embassy, Air New Zealand, and Racing Tauranga will gather to celebrate the 44th running of the New Zealand Trophy Exchange Race.
Last season’s winning trainer, Andrew Scott of Wexford Stables (who co-trains alongside Lance O’Sullivan), travelled to Japan with his wife Sara after their runner Waitak claimed the 2025 Group 2 feature at Tauranga.
“There was quite a bit of talk about it [the incentive] throughout the day,” Scott said. “Winning was fantastic, but the trip to Japan was an amazing bonus.”
On his experience in Japan, Scott said, “Just mind-blowing. The facilities are next level and that scale of investment shows how committed they are to producing elite racehorses. It was just surreal to witness firsthand.”
He added: “I don’t think we fully appreciate how strong Japan racing is from this side of the world. Their breeding systems, their training infrastructure, it’s all geared toward finding the very best. It gave me a new appreciation for the depth and professionalism of their entire industry.”
Scott said opportunities like this are hugely valuable for New Zealand’s training ranks.
“The relationship between Racing Tauranga and the JRA is so valuable. We’re lucky to have a foot in the door there. It allows Kiwi trainers to get a look behind the curtain at one of the most successful racing jurisdictions in the world, an experience I would say very few get to have.
“Opportunities like this are rare, and the learnings you can bring home are priceless.”
“If the race suits your horse, then go for it. I can honestly say it’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss. Anyone with the passion to learn should definitely have a crack.”
Bayly added that the initiative continues to strengthen international ties forged over five decades.
“This partnership between Racing Tauranga and the JRA is something we’re very proud of. It is a real celebration of a shared passion that connects our two nations. I can’t wait to see who we’ll be hosting in Tokyo next year.”