Warwick Coles recognised

This week’s NZ Racecourse Managers’ Annual Conference in Palmerston North saw the presentation of the inaugural HRNZ Track Manager Contribution Award which was presented to Warwick Coles in recognition of his commitment and long-standing contribution to track management.

Raised in Pleasant Point, Warwick worked alongside his father, Melville, balancing farm life with training horses. He spent time at the freezing works, worked in a thoroughbred stable in Australia, and gained valuable experience in trackwork riding, breaking-in, and stud work — even celebrating Group 1 success with Robert Hore Lacy.

The Coles family produced standout horses such as Miracle Mouse, Flying Petal, Interpol, Yogi, and Chokita. After moving to The Levels near Phar Lap Raceway, Warwick eventually became the track’s long-serving track manager — a role he has held for over 20 years.

Thanks to his deep knowledge and consistency, Phar Lap Raceway is now considered one of the best racing surfaces in the South Island, with the grass track meeting earning high praise from drivers. As part of the award, Warwick will travel to a harness track on Australia’s eastern seaboard for five days of hands-on experience — an opportunity to bring new ideas and insights back home.