Applications are open for the 2026 NZTR McKenzie Future Leaders Scholarship, offering up to $10,000 to support young people connected to Thoroughbred racing as they begin their university studies.
Jointly funded by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and Dean McKenzie, the scholarship is designed to invest in the future of the Thoroughbred industry by supporting talented young people with a passion for racing to develop the skills, knowledge and leadership capability the sport will need in years to come.
It is open to recent school leavers who have been accepted into, or are enrolled in, their first year of a Commerce, Business or Law degree at a New Zealand university.
Applicants must be New Zealand residents and have a connection to the New Zealand Thoroughbred industry. This may be through family, employment, community involvement or another meaningful association with the sport.
“The future strength of Thoroughbred racing will depend on attracting talented young people who bring fresh thinking, strong skills and a genuine passion for the industry,” NZTR Head of People & Performance Ashleigh Curran said.
“This scholarship provides support at an important stage in a young person’s education. We encourage eligible school leavers from across the racing community to apply and take the first step towards becoming part of the industry’s next generation of leaders,” she said.
The most recent recipient, Maria Scott, began a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Marketing at the University of Auckland this year.
The daughter of Wexford Stables trainer Andrew Scott, Maria has developed her own strong connection with racing through roles at the New Zealand Bloodstock sales and practical experience at Kilmarnock Pretraining Stable.
She hopes to build a career in racing media, marketing and leadership, helping the industry find creative and contemporary ways to engage new audiences and share the stories of its people and horses.
The scholarship was established to support promising young people such as Maria in their education, while strengthening the future governance, administration and leadership capability of racing.
Young people with a passion for racing and an ambition to help shape the future of the industry are encouraged to apply. Applications must include:
- A completed application form
- A cover letter
- A CV
The scholarship is a one-off award of up to $10,000. Applicants may apply only once, whether successful or unsuccessful.
Applications close on Friday 30 October 2026.
For further information visit nztr.co.nz/future-leaders.
