Rugby, Racing & Beer raises funds for racing’s first responders.

Waikato Thoroughbred nursery, Windsor Park Stud, had an outstanding result at their fifth annual Rugby, Racing and Beer South Island Yearling Sale at Riccarton Park in April.

Along with the purchase of all 11 horses, the sold-out event raised $45,525 for the two charities they chose to support in 2026: Hato Hone St John & the NZ Horse Ambulance Trust.

The Showgate was abuzz with excitement during the sports luncheon, featuring leading Sydney trainer Bjorn Baker, All Black great Andy Ellis, and a live yearling sale.

Rodney Schick said, “It’s nice to be able to put back into the industry and support the Horse Ambulance; we all want to look after those beautiful animals in their time of need.”

He acknowledged the significant support from Entain in running the event over the years, as well as this year's partners, Bayleys and Kia Nicholson Autos.

In addition to the yearling sale, where 2.5% of the proceeds are given to the charity partners, several auction items and a generous $5,000 donation from Dunstan Horsefeeds elevated the charity component to new heights.

NZHAT’s Operations Manager, Jo Starr, said, “The generosity of people in the room simply blew us away, and we’re humbled by the amount raised for the horse ambulance service. Every dollar raised makes a tangible difference for the equine athletes in racing and equestrian sports.

We are grateful to all the successful purchasers and the underbidders who helped raise the roof on the yearling sales, and also to the industry participants who filled the room to enjoy the sports luncheon and unique yearling sale.”

The Trust also acknowledges the live auction items generously donated by Bjorn Baker, Taylor Perry Consulting, and Jonny Schick, which raised nearly $30,000 for the race-day first responders in NZ’s Thoroughbred breeding and racing industry.

A Profondo colt out of Shama De Oro purchased by Kenny Rae.