New rules for 2YOs in 2024

Harness Racing New Zealand would like to remind everyone in the sport of the new rules regarding two-year-olds.

From the start of 2024 it's been decided that two-year-olds can only race against their age group, and not in rating races as they did previously.

Around 150 two-year-old races have been programmed this year compared with 82 last season to ensure there are opportunities for all two-year-olds. Note that this policy will be reviewed as the season progresses.

Two-year-old races will go ahead as long as there are at least five nominations. Any less than that and the race will not proceed.

To encourage more juveniles to race there are also a number of financial incentives on offer.

For instance there is a $12,000 bonus paid out on every two-year-old's maiden victory in a Two-year-old only race. Of that $8,000 will go to the owner, $4000 to the breeder.

To see the 2YO calendar for 2024 click here