The Sunline Trust International Management Scholarship has been an important steppingstone in the careers of its graduates.

Recipients of the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (NZTBA) administered education pathway have gone on to shine both domestically and on the international stage in a variety of roles such as successful bloodstock agents, marketing specialists, trainers, agistment farm operators and yearling consignors.

The NZTBA have opened applications for the 2023 scholarship and are searching for the next candidate to support during this once in a lifetime opportunity.

The scholarship was developed by the Auckland branch of the NZTBA some 20 years ago when they recognised the need to send motivated young people abroad to expand their knowledge and skill set to ensure the future of the New Zealand thoroughbred industry.

Due to the constraints of COVID-19, the scholarship was not awarded in 2021. This year the NZTBA awarded the scholarship to Hannah Airey who instead of travelling overseas, has been supported to further her tertiary study while taking part in a pasture research project in the Waikato and Auckland areas in conjunction with Massey University.

“Previously the scholarship included time spent in England, Ireland and the States,” NZTBA chief executive Justine Sclater said.

“Unfortunately, due to the tightening of immigration laws in America we won’t be including that leg in this year’s scholarship.

“We intend to give the recipient more time in Ireland and England and use the remainder of the time spent on the scholarship to develop a bespoke programme to focus on the field the successful candidate wants to specialise in.

“We know from the calibre of applicants for our Irish National Stud Scholarship that there are some exceptional young people working in our industry and we want to give one of them the opportunity to go to the next level in their career.

“A quick look at the previous scholarship winners listed on our NZTBA website gives you a pretty good indication of what this scholarship can do for a person. Past recipients include Jamie Richards, Bruce Slade and Libby Bleakley, all people that have excelled in their chosen career and are great role models for our young industry participants.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for a young person to learn from some of the best in the world and build an incredible network of contacts.”

Applicants should be under 30 years of age, need to be motivated, have a good general knowledge of the thoroughbred industry and experience in the management and handling of horses of all ages.

They should be working towards a long-term career within the New Zealand thoroughbred industry and will be bonded to work in New Zealand for 12 months on their return. A tertiary qualification is ideal but not essential.

To apply a covering letter and cv can be emailed to nztba@nzthoroughbred.co.nz by 5pm, Sunday 27^th November.