The New Zealand Thoroughbred racing industry is celebrating the exceptional achievements of legendary Jockey Noel Harris
Noel Harris: New Zealand Order of Merit for Lifetime Achievements in Horse Racing
Legendary Jockey Noel Harris has been appointed to the New Zealand Order of Merit in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Thoroughbred racing. This prestigious award highlights a lifetime of exceptional achievements, dedication and service to the industry that has defined Harris’ life and career. Known to most as “Harry,” Noel Harris is a name synonymous with success in New Zealand’s Jockey ranks. Across a career spanning more than 40 years, Harris achieved 2167 victories, including multiple Group 1 triumphs both in New Zealand and internationally. His career stands as a testament to his incredible skills and resilience.
Harris’ journey began in the 1970s when he quickly rose through the ranks to become one of New Zealand’s most sought-after Jockeys. Born into a racing family, his father Jock Harris was also a jockey. Among his most memorable victories were wins on New Zealand Racing Hall of Fame inductees Castletown and Poetic Prince. His success extended internationally, earning him respect on both sides of the Tasman.
“I’m deeply honoured to receive this recognition and humbled by the journey that has brought me here,” said Harris. “Racing has been my life and this award is a reflection of the incredible people I’ve worked with, the Owners, Trainers, and of course the horses, that have helped shape my career. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to contribute to a sport that has given me so much.”
In addition to his remarkable achievements on the track, Harris continues his dedication as the Northern Apprentice Jockey Mentor for New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR). Over the past few years, he has mentored countless young apprentice Jockeys, sharing his wisdom and experience with the next generation of talented riders.
“Noel Harris is a true legend of our sport and his appointment to the New Zealand Order of Merit is richly deserved,” said Russell Warwick, Chairman of NZTR. “His achievements on the track are remarkable, but it’s his role as a mentor, advocate, and ambassador for New Zealand racing that continues to set him apart,” Warwick said.
John says, “Earlier this week when reporting to you about the retirement of Opie Bosson I mentioned that Opie had ridden my first ever winner trained by Te Akau, Kapsdan, however that was not my first taste of success on the race track as I had raced my very first horse in the 1980s, that being Templequay trained by the late Barney Lumsden at Foxton. Templequay, despite only costing $3000 when purchased, managed to win five races with the first of those (on debut as I recall) at Wararapa/Carterton on 10th Feb 1988 in the hands of none other than the incomparable Noel Harris. I didn’t really know Noel in those days of course, but since starting up Fortuna in 2007 I have got to know him well and we have developed a warm association over the years – I do remember teasing him on more than one occasion because, despite having several opportunities, including once or twice going down in head bobbing finishes, Noel didn’t ever ride another winner for me.
However there is no question that this award is extremely well deserved for an individual who not only made his mark in an emphatic way during his riding career, but has continued to contribute to the industry in his role as apprentice jockey mentor. Well done Noel
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Guest Selector – Des Coppins
Des is “on furlough” this week and will return for next week’s edition Friday 10th January
