Harness Racing New Zealand chief executive Peter Jensen will stand down on Friday.
Harness boss Peter Jensen stands down over health issues - ‘I can’t give it 100%’
By Barry Lichter • 19 May 2020
Harness Racing New Zealand has lost its boss with the immediate retirement of chief executive Peter Jensen.
Jensen, who will stand down on Friday with health issues, said it was both an extremely difficult, yet easy, decision to make.
“I have underlying health issues and realise these have got to the point where I cannot give 100% to HRNZ at a time when it requires 150%.
“I know the timing is far from ideal, but I also understand that I am not able to give the organisation the energy and guidance that it requires at this time, hence my decision to retire and concentrate on my health.”
The HRNZ board said while disappointed to receive Jensen’s resignation, it was fully supportive of his decision.
Jensen had guided HRNZ through a period of great change, including the present venue-cutting proposals.
Jensen took up the top role at HRNZ in February, 2019 after 18 months as CEO at Addington Raceway.
Board chairman Ken Spicer said that in the interim, the board will help cover the various roles of the CEO and will start a recruitment process shortly with a view to making an appointment in the new season.
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Ray’s comments
Friday night at Auckland
Race 3: Copy Ten Four
5.52pm
“He got a bit tired last week but he didn’t stop. With a better draw this time, hopefully he’ll hold up in front and we can see what he’s got. He’s a good maiden and we haven’t seen the best of him yet, he’s a big horse who is still learning.”
Race 5: Colonel Lincoln
6.54pm
“You’d have to rate him the best horse in the field and he’s race fit now. And I thought he was pretty good last time. Drawing the outside makes it tougher but if Nathan (Delany) can secure a decent trip, he’d have to be a serious chance.”
Race 8: Leo Lincoln
8.23pm
“He’ll go another honest race but it’s hard to see him winning in that field where he’s at such a disadvantage in the ratings.”
