Initially starting out as an accountant for BNZ, Bruce made the move to track life early on in his career and over some 35 plus years, along with Peter Lagan, he forged the shape of standardbred sales. Complimented by a group of dedicated staff, under his management he has witnessed extraordinary changes to the trading of horses. From manually writing pedigrees, developing a standardbred database through to helping implement NZB's first-ever online standardbred auction. The establishment of the Sales Race incentive series, now known as the Harness Million, a definite highlight of his career.
I would like to personally acknowledge the expertise Bruce capably brought with him to his advisory role in NZB Standardbred. His knowledge has proven invaluable, not only to NZB but to the wider industry body. I first meet Bruce in the 1990's when he established the sale in the North Island that was held at Karaka. From that time we have worked closely together to run auctions in both islands. I have always admired his integrity, appreciated his council and enjoyed our mutual friendship. Bruce confidently adapted to any situation he was thrown into. He actively puts others before himself and is a highly valued member of our team. We will sorely miss his great eye for detail and zealous personality.
Bruce has served on the New Zealand Sires Stakes Board for 30 years and has been Treasurer of the board for the last 20. The late Wayne Francis asked him to take over his previous roll and we wish him all the best in this role and his future endeavours, wherever they may be.
We, along with all of the New Zealand harness racing industry, take this opportunity to offer an immense thank you to him for the remarkable contribution he has made to the standardbred industry.
Following Bruce's departure, we will continue to function under the same operational structure. With extensive teams in Auckland, the Waikato, South Island and internationally, NZB Standardbred will remain focused on the core business of selling horses.
James Jennings
Director & Operations Manager