Top class racing and an atmosphere to match – bring on Windsor Park Plate Day! We caught up with Rodney Schick, Stud Master and co-owner of Windsor Park, to chat about this fantastic day of racing.

How did this sponsorship come about?  

Windsor Park has been sponsoring races in the Hawke's Bay for about 20 years now going back to the Hawke's Bay Guineas. When the opportunity came up to sponsor what has consistently been one of the top rated races in New Zealand, we jumped at the opportunity. We also enjoy returning the support that we have received from the Hawke's Bay breeders for a number of years.

Do you have a favourite edition of the race? 

For me it was 2011 when the exceptional racehorse & son of Thorn Park, Jimmy Choux won. Jimmy Choux won 5 Group 1s in his career and it was awesome to be on course and watch a son of one of our stallions win a Group 1 race that we sponsor.

There’s a lot to love about Windsor Park Plate Day! In your eyes, what makes it such a great day of racing?

It’s a beautiful course & the company is always excellent. It is a race that always attracts the best racehorses in New Zealand and this year is no different aided by the late addition of Champion Mare – Melody Belle. This year will be particularly significant as after a long wait everyone is allowed back on track!

What are you most looking forward to come Windsor Park Plate Day, 3 October?  

Setting foot on course! There is nothing better than Group 1 race days especially the Windsor Park Plate as this day gives us the chance to celebrate with our great friends in the industry.

The best part? Due to alert level restrictions being eased outside the greater Auckland region, crowds WILL be allowed on-course at Windsor Park Plate Day. We’ll see you there!