New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) introduces a new Licensing Policy on 1 August 2010.

This new policy aims to provide a transparent and robust system for assessing applicants wishing to become Licensees and sets out clear directions in regards to Licensees’ obligations. For NZTR, the policy confirms its responsibilities when dealing with applications.

Licensees are Trainers (all classes), Riders (all classes), Stablehands, Trackwork Riders, Rider Agents, Authorised Syndicators and Authorised Valuers.

Work on the new policy was initiated late last year and included consideration of policies used in other racing jurisdictions. It also provided the opportunity to ensure ‘best practice.’ An example of this is procedures around a ‘show cause’ notice. A show cause notice issued to a Licensee requires the Licensee to attend a hearing to demonstrate why their licence should not be suspended or withdrawn.

Other key changes to current practice include delegating responsibility to the Chief Stipendiary Steward for approving or declining licence applications. The NZTR Integrity Committee currently has this responsibility. In future, only applications, which are deemed ‘problematic,’ will continue to be reviewed by the Integrity Committee.

NZTR will also be enforcing more stringent requirements, in regards to proving financial stability, upon applicants seeking a Class A, B or C Trainer’s licence.