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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Nathan’s comments
Thursday night at Cambridge
Race 1: Lincoln Linda
5.55pm
“She needed the run last week. Even though she galloped in the score-up, her manners are definitely improving as she didn’t pull in the running. She’ll be sharper this week so hopefully she’ll pace away and get the job done. It looks a pretty even field.”
Race 4: Lincoln Lover
7.18pm
“He only battled away last start and Fergie said he wasn’t really on the bit at the back of the field. He’s been racing for a while and might be a bit fatigued. The outside draw doesn’t help either and Soul Artist was very impressive winning last time.”
Race 6: Lincoln Maree
8.22pm
“She hasn’t got a lot of speed but she tries hard so the best spot for her might be in front, rolling along. That said, her closing sectionals (57.8, 27.9) were the best in the race last time. We couldn’t get one of the Sharpe boys so we’ve had to settle for Frank Phelan. She’s an each-way chance with Andy (Sharpe) the one to beat on Commander Lincoln.”
Ray’s comments
Friday night at Auckland
Race 2: Leo Lincoln
5.21pm
“We’ve thrown him in the deep end, but it was either that or trial. He’s been going OK but he’ll need the run for sure.”
Race 2: Spiritual Bliss
5.21pm
“She won’t be completely out of it, she’s better than people think. The inside second row draw isn’t ideal, and luck will obviously play a part, but I think she’ll be competitive.”
Race 3: Rivergirl Bella
5.57pm
“She was always going to need the run last time as it was her first for a long time. She’ll improve off that. She’s plenty fast enough but needs to get fitter.”
Race 3: Sammy Lincoln
5.57pm
“We found he had a bit of a virus after he last raced so had to ease up on him. He’ll be a little short (on fitness) but his class should carry him through. He is vulnerable with his behaviour at the moment but he’s only got to get round without any silliness and I can’t see how they can beat him.”
Race 4: Johnny Lincoln
6.24pm
“He’s racing super and they’ll know he’s there. He’s trained on well since his Metro Final win. He races tough and at Auckland they have to be tough now.”
