Racing Tauranga has confirmed its popular Japan trainers’ incentive will return for a third year.

The winning trainer of the Group 2 Ultimate Mazda Japan Trophy in March is set to receive an exclusive racing experience in Japan, a Racing Tauranga statement said.

The initiative, which debuted in 2025, adds an international element to Bayleys International Raceday and rewards the trainer of the feature race with a trip for two to Tokyo.

Supported by Air New Zealand, the prize includes Premium Economy return flights and five-star accommodation at the Palace Hotel, while the Japan Racing Association (JRA) hosts the winners during their visit.

The successful trainer and a guest will tour the renowned Miho Training Centre before attending Nakayama Racecourse as VIP guests for the 45th running of the New Zealand Trophy Exchange Race, the Japanese counterpart to Tauranga’s Ultimate Mazda Japan Trophy.

Racing Tauranga chairman Michael Bayly said the incentive reflected the club’s long-standing relationship with the JRA and its commitment to supporting New Zealand trainers.

Japan Racing Association representatives on course at Tauranga Racecourse.

“Our relationship with the JRA has a special place in our club’s history and this incentive is about ensuring that relationship continues to deliver meaningful opportunities for our industry,” Bayly said.

“Entering our third year is a real milestone. We’ve seen first-hand just how valuable this experience can be for the winning trainers, not only as a reward for success on the track but as an opportunity to gain insight into one of the world’s most advanced racing jurisdictions.”

Bayly said Racing Tauranga was grateful for the ongoing support of Air New Zealand and the JRA in helping deliver the programme.

The incentive has already taken two New Zealand training operations to Japan.

Awapuni trainers Peter and Trent Didham secured the 2026 prize when Omega Boy won the Ultimate Mazda Japan Trophy. Peter Didham later travelled to Tokyo with his wife Trish and returned impressed by the country’s racing infrastructure and facilities.

Omega Boy.

“The concept is amazing,” Didham said after returning home.

“If New Zealand trainers can go overseas, see how things work and bring ideas back home, that’s fantastic. The Japan trip was amazing for that reason alone.”

Wexford Stables trainer Andrew Scott was the inaugural recipient in 2025 after Waitak won the race for Scott and co-trainer Lance O’Sullivan. Scott travelled to Japan with his wife Sara and described the experience as invaluable.

“The relationship between Racing Tauranga and the JRA is so valuable. We’re lucky to have a foot in the door there,” Scott said.

“Opportunities like this are rare, and the learnings you can bring home are priceless.”

The initiative forms part of a relationship spanning more than 50 years between Racing Tauranga and the JRA, with both organisations participating in reciprocal exchanges over several decades.

Bayly said the incentive continued to enhance the status of the Ultimate Mazda Japan Trophy and provide trainers with an added reason to target the Group 2 feature.

“With two fantastic experiences already behind us, we’re looking forward to seeing who will be heading to Japan in 2027.”

The 56th running of the Group 2 Ultimate Mazda Japan Trophy will be held at Tauranga Racecourse on March 13, 2027, as part of Bayleys International Raceday.