High Profile NZ Sponsor Threatens to Withdraw Support
- Thursday, 12 September 2002 00:00
In a letter distributed to industry officials this week, Daimler Chrysler's New Zealand managing director Ernie Ward, of Auckland has expressed concern at the public displays of in-house bickering within the galloping code.
Ward said the recent media articles highlighting disunity and friction within the New Zealand racing industry were not in the best interests of anyone concerned.
"As a sponsor of racing in New Zealand it is important for our brand (Mercedes) to be associated with an industry that has an excellent image, providing the right front," Ward said.
"Recently I have seen comments in the media from various sections of the industry, for example the Trainers Association and also the Breeders' Association, in which they have publicly attacked the position of chairman of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing and its function.
"From our point of view we do not wish to enter into the arguments other than to say that it is of concern to our company that these issues are not confined to the boardrooms. The disunity does not raise the industry's image with the Racing Minister nor with Mercedes Benz as a sponsor. I am sure that other sponsors think likewise and I have had discussions with them to confirm this," Mr Ward said.
"The time for intense discussion is behind closed doors and once decisions have been made then the industry should run with it. At least there should be respect for the Chair and any dissatisfaction can be voiced at election time.
"We could not care less about who is in the chair and anyone brave enough to do the job should at least have the support from the various bodies.
"If the current situation continues then Mercedes-Benz will have no alternative than to review its racing sponsorships," said Mr Ward.
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing chairman Murray Acklin declined to comment on the letter as he wished to pursue the matter with the sector groups.
However, Mr Acklin has consistently urged the industry not to air its grievances in public and believes all industry problems should be discussed by the appropriate groups around the Board table.
Media Release - TNZ
