New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing has appointed Queensland-based and New Zealand-born Reid Sanders to the position of chief stipendiary steward to replace Cameron George.
Paul Bittar, chief executive of NZTR, said yesterday: "I am pleased to welcome Reid to NZTR and back to the New Zealand racing industry.
"Hisappointment is the result of a thorough search and selection process and reinforces our ongoing programme of strengthening integrity services.
"For the past three years NZTR has been responding to the need to put the regulation of New Zealand racing on a stronger and more progressive footing and developing effective training for integrity staff and NZTR licensees.
"This is an important and high profile role within the New Zealand racing industry. We appointed Reid because of his proven record as a steward, as well as his strong experience in a leadership role overseeing all facets of integrity."
Reid is currently chief stipendiary steward for Queensland Racing (QRL), a broad-ranging role that has required him to not only chair race meetings and inquiries, and to represent QRL at appeals and tribunals, but also to develop and implement policies and procedures relating to integrity and compliance with legislation.
He has also been responsible for managing a number of departments including Betting and Veterinary Services and has been a key member of the project teams involved in the installation of synthetic tracks in Queensland.
In 2007 and 2008 he was involved in Queensland's Emergency Animal Disease control, following the outbreak of equine influenza in Australia.
Reid was appointed a cadet steward with QRL in 1994 and became Queensland's chief stipe in 2005.
Reid was born in New Zealand and attended St Paul's Collegiate School in Hamilton, before moving with his family to Brisbane.
Sanders is no stranger to dealing with New Zealanders.
He charged Lisa Cropp after the Brisbane Cup, alleging she had stood in the saddle and gave a victory salute one stride before the winning post at Eagle Farm.
Cropp, riding Lilakyn, was beaten a nose and Sanders alleged her actions cost her the race.
Cropp successfully appealed against the lengthy suspension she received. Sanders appealed that decision but was unsuccessful.
