Team Teal gears up for big final push

With just over a week to go, the Teal Pants campaign is proving a major success.

So far there have been 58 wins by Team Teal drivers, five more than for 2022, with the total raised approaching $22,000.

Money is raised for the Teal Pants campaign every time a female driver, wearing teal pants, wins a race, with Harness Racing New Zealand ($100), clubs ($100), individual sponsors and others all contributing to the cause. All money goes towards ovarian cancer research.

This is the sixth time it's been held in New Zealand, after starting across the Tasman. The campaign started on February 1 and finishes at the Timaru meeting on March 15.

Sarah O'Reilly, the country's top junior driver, leads the way with 10 wins, with sisters Sheree (7) and Kerryn (6) Tomlinson next. Gemma Thornley also has six wins.

In all 17 female drivers have registered wins, with the total currently standing at $21,906. Last year's total was just over $15,000.

This week Teal Pants will have a big focus on the West Coast.

Both Westport on Friday, March 10 and Reefton on Sunday, March 12 will feature two ladies-only races and there will be spot prizes on course for those wearing teal.

At Reefton three $100 cash prizes will be up for grabs - so "teal it up" to be in to win.

On Tuesday March 14 the very first Team Teal quiz night will be held at Addington Raceway. There will be teams of 4-6, costing $10 per person, with games and raffles throughout the night. Doors open at 6pm with the quiz starting at 7pm. All proceeds will go to the campaign.

Anyone interested in getting involved should contact courtney@hrnz.co.nz