McKenzie Future Leaders Scholarship applications open
Applications have opened for the 2026 NZTR McKenzie Future Leaders Scholarship, which provides a one-off award of up to $10,000 to support young people connected to thoroughbred racing undertaking university studies.
Jointly funded by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and Dean McKenzie, the scholarship is open to recent school leavers accepted into, or enrolled in, their first year of a commerce, business or law degree at a New Zealand university.
Applicants must be New Zealand residents with a connection to the thoroughbred industry through family, employment, community involvement or another association with racing.
“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 and 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.”
The 2026 recipient will follow Maria Scott, the daughter of Wexford Stables trainer Andrew Scott, who began a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Marketing at the University of Auckland this year after gaining experience with New Zealand Bloodstock and Kilmarnock Pretraining Stable.
Applicants must submit an application form, cover letter and CV, with applications closing on Friday, October 30.
The scholarship can only be applied for once, regardless of whether an applicant is successful, with further information available at nztr.co.nz/future-leaders.
