Windsor Park Stud manager Rodney Schick says the timing of his appointment to the New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing board doesn't get any better.
“With the entry of Entain, we have the opportunity to make a difference and this, coupled with some of the legislation that was brought in through Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters, enables us to be able to make some significant changes," he said.
“I’m thoroughly looking forward to beginning my tenure, working alongside the current NZTR board and management to make a significant impact on our industry."
Schick will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the board, having run his own large-scale stud farm operation, Windsor Park Stud, for more than two decades with his wife Gina.
“What really drew me to take up this position is that it’s my life's work and I’m incredibly passionate about it,” he said.
“I understand all aspects of the industry, I’ve done most things in this world other than being a horse trainer or jockey.
"I have spent a long time both racing and breeding horses and I understand the fundamentals of what makes this industry tick.”
As a result of chair Cameron George’s departure in July, the members’ council will be advertising for a further NZTR board director.