New Zealand racing’s hottest property, Well Written, is locked in for the $4m The NZB Kiwi, after connections of the unbeaten filly signed up for the TAB slot, held by Entain New Zealand.
The daughter of Written Tycoon has won all three of her career starts in dominant fashion, topped off by her Group 1 1000 Guineas victory at Riccarton last month.
The Cambridge-based filly will now be set for the richest 3-year-old race in the Southern Hemisphere on 7 March at Ellerslie, with lead-up runs planned on Boxing Day and in the TAB Karaka Millions 3YO in January, before The NZB Kiwi.
Entain Australia and New Zealand CEO Andrew Vouris was thrilled that Well Written’s connections had chosen the TAB slot for her bid to become the winner of the second running of The NZB Kiwi.
“Well Written has already stamped herself as a brilliant talent and has gained a following on both sides of the Tasman,” Vouris said.
“Through our broadcasting, content and wagering teams, we can’t wait to introduce her to an even bigger audience across Australasia, with an incredibly bright future ahead of her.
Well Written’s trainer Stephen Marsh said the Entain team had built a comprehensive plan to elevate the interest around the race, and around Well Written.
“Entain really impressed us with the scope of what they can bring to the partnership, and as someone who grew up in the New Zealand racing industry, it feels right to link up with the iconic TAB brand for this massive race,” Marsh said.
“Well Written has already taken her band of supporters on an amazing journey, and we’re sure it will go to the next level with Entain’s support.”
Major Australian breeding operation Yulong Investments purchased 50% of Well Written prior to her 1000 Guineas win. Other horses to wear the Yulong colours include dual Cox Plate winner Via Sistina and four-time Group 1-winning mare Treasurethe Moment.
Yulong Investment’s Racing Manager Troy Stephens said it is incredibly exciting for Yulong to be involved in the 2026 edition of The NZB Kiwi.
“It is a race that has captured the attention of the New Zealand industry, so to be involved with a filly of Well Written’s calibre to represent Yulong is a great thrill for us,” Stephens said.
“We look forward to working alongside the Entain team and Marsh Racing in the lead-up to the race. New Zealand has such a rich racing history, and we are proud to now be part of that landscape — it is a very exciting time for Yulong.”
As the winner of the Group 1 Barneswood Farm 53rd 1000 Guineas, Well Written is eligible for a share of the $1 million Bonus Pool up for grabs for horses that place in the top three in the NZB Kiwi.