The NZB Kiwi 2025 Race Preview
What is The NZB Kiwi?
Even as a racing fan you can be forgiven if you haven’t heard of this race as it is new to the racing scene in 2025! New Zealand racing is set to undergo a major transformation this year, with the launch of The NZB Kiwi, the southern hemisphere’s richest three-year-old race. In a joint media release made by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR), TAB New Zealand, and Entain, the race will be sponsored by New Zealand Bloodstock (NZB) and promises to be a fantastic addition to the New Zealand racing calendar.
Champions Day
The NZB Kiwi will be one of the main attractions of the newly established Champions Day, which will take place on the second Saturday of March at Ellerslie Racecourse. The event will feature more than NZ$9 million in total prize money in its first year, with expectations to rise to NZ$10 million in the second year. Alongside the NZB Kiwi, Champions Day will showcase other prestigious races, including the New Zealand Derby which is a Group 1 race over 2400 metres and three other Group 1 races.
NZ Summer Racing Season
This event is set to become a major highlight in New Zealand’s summer racing season, drawing international attention and adding more excitement to the sport. With the increased prize money and high-profile races, Champions Day is poised to raise New Zealand racing to new heights. The NZB Kiwi is a slot race like those that have worked well in several countries including Australia, where The Everest has attracted a new generation of fans and garnered more than just the racing industry’s interest.
Early Odds and Tips for The NZB Kiwi 2025
The futures market for The NZB Kiwi has several runners who have been allocated a slot early vying for favouritism. This includes Evaporate, Perfumist, Checkmate and Damask Rose all presently at about $6. Other runners who have secured a slot are Sethito and Dealt With both $10, and Ardalio at $11.
Pickabookie.com.au Futures’ Picks
The Pickabookie.com.au futures’ picks for the race are, the three-year-old Dealt With, who recently came third in the Karaka Millions 3YO. Slot holders Kerri Spence Bloodstock and Clotworthy Racing have picked the runner for the prestigious race, and he should improve having just had his first run over 1600 metres. The other pick is Perfumist who narrowly failed to complete a 5-timer at Randwick. The trip and form of this Bjorn Baker-trained filly makes her look a worthy favourite in the futures markets.
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