Record wins and $31,000 raised during Team Teal 2026

A record-breaking Team Teal 2026 has come to an end, with more than $30,000 raised.

The annual campaign has two main objectives - to create awareness around ovarian cancer and to raise money to fund research.

The 2026 campaign started on February 1 and finished yesterday.

Overall there were 92 wins by female drivers (and their teal pants) in this country over the past six weeks,  easily eclipsing the old record of 79 set last year.

Money is raised every time a female driver wins a race thanks to contributions from HRNZ and selected clubs ($100 each) while there are five Ambassadors who raise extra money every time they win through their individual sponsorships.

All five Ambassadors had wins in 2026, with Crystal Hackett leading the way with 13, followed by Sam Ottley (10), Olivia Thornley (7), Kirstin Green (6) and Brooke Wilkins (2).

Thornley raised the most money, a total of $4800, thanks to her sponsors - Peter Baken, Grant Dickey, Cullen Racing, Cavalier Trotting Products, Geoff Blight and Leisa Thomas, Joseph Gray Racing, Wycola Hair,  Inspire Motion Physiotherapy, Alan Beecroft and Steven Ward.

Team Teal's final meeting at Motukarara yesterday featured a Team Teal Mini Trot (Hobby Horse) Classic.

It was a first for the campaign - but certainly won't be the last.

In an action-packed drama-filled sprint Tayla Duley was declared the winner following the disqualification of Darnika Williams, with Sheree Tomlinson and Devon Dolan making up the trifecta.

Friday night at Addington also saw a big Team Teal fund-raiser which included the final of the Frocks at the Trots fashion show.

Alex Valle won Best Dressed and Best Hat while Angela Miller was second, and Pauline Pattulo third. They are pictured above with Team Teal founder Duncan McPherson. 

A total of $31,152 was raised during the campaign and HRNZ would like to thank all the ambassadors, drivers, sponsors, and the many other supporters who helped make it such a success.

Footnote : At 7.10 Tuesday morning Sheree Tomlinson, who had seven wins during the Team Teal campaign, will feature on the The Breeze Canterbury with hosts Hils and Fitzy.