Ahead of the Harcourts Central Region Raceday on Monday 11 November, we caught up with Greg Sheppard, owner of Harcourts Waihi Beach, proud sponsor of the day as a part of a collective of local Harcourts Offices — and a man with racing in his blood.
Q: What first drew you to owning racehorses?
Greg: It was inherited from my grandfather, uncle and father — we always had racehorses on the farm. Dad pre-trained, owned and raced horses with friends and neighbours, so I’ve been around it all my life.
Q: Tell us about your current horses — any ones to watch?
Greg: I have shares in Maison Louis in Sydney, I’m A Dirty Rascal, To Bravery Born and Vistown — they’re all worth watching. The first two are definitely ones to keep an eye on over the next few weeks.
Q: What’s been your most memorable moment as an owner so far?
Greg: Tell A Tale winning the 2000 Guineas in 2008 at Riccarton — that was an amazing thrill and experience you try to relive. And Maison Louis winning the Queensland Derby this year was another incredible moment.
Q: What do you love most about being part of the racing community?
Greg: The racing community are a big part of the regions and really support the clubs and towns throughout New Zealand. The local involvement on raceday is something special.
Q: Harcourts has a strong presence in the community — what makes sponsoring this raceday a good fit?
Greg: Harcourts has strong community values, and racing remains a big part of our regions. It’s a natural fit. We’re proud to sponsor races and meetings throughout New Zealand.
Q: What do you enjoy about raceday sponsorships?
Greg: Getting involved with Racing Te Aroha and enjoying the day — simple as that.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about the Harcourts Central Region Raceday?
Greg: Bringing together different companies and people to enjoy a great day out.
Q: How do events like this strengthen your connection with the local community?
Greg: Seeing Harcourts support local events is huge for all our offices — it’s another way to show we’re part of the community, not just working in it.
Q: Any advice for people attending their first raceday?
Greg: Bet with your shoelaces, not your shoes! And most importantly, enjoy the experience.
Q: Do you have a favourite raceday tradition?
Greg: Not really — though I did have a favourite tie. It’s not looking great anymore!
Q: Which is more nerve-wracking — waiting for an auction result or watching your horse in the home straight?
Greg: Very similar! I was always nervous before auctions, but I’d say an auction is more nerve-wracking. The work’s done and the result’s out of your control. Watching a horse storm home is thrilling and exciting.
Q: If you could name a horse after a real estate term, what would it be?
Greg: Unconditional.
Quickfire Round
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Favourite horse: Sunline
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Favourite track: Riccarton
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Favourite post-race celebration: Hugs and high fives!
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Trainer dream team: Mark Walker & John O’Shea
Join Greg and the Harcourts team for a fantastic day of racing, hospitality, and community spirit at Racing Te Aroha’s Harcourts Central Region Raceday, Tuesday 11 November.
There’s no better way to spend a Tuesday than trackside!