Te Akau Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Te Akau Racing Announces Key Leadership Appointments:

Te Akau Racing is proud to announce two significant appointments that reflect our ongoing commitment to identifying and developing passionate, talented professionals and building a strong future for our industry.

On 1 May 2025, Reece Trumper stepped into the role of Assistant Trainer for Te Akau Racing (NZ). Reece is a natural horseman whose deep understanding of thoroughbred racing and breeding, combined with his leadership and enthusiasm, has seen him quickly rise through the ranks since joining Te Akau in 2018.  Prior to his appointment as Racing Manager in August 2022, Reece was Assistant Stable Foreman at our Te Akau Colt Barn, where he brought diligence and professionalism to every facet of stable life.

Reece’s journey in racing began in Stratford, and his passion for the industry is deeply rooted – his grandparents, John and Sue Trumper of Cheveley Stud (Te Aroha), stood stallions and bred Group 1 winners including Gee I Jane, Pakaraka Star and Bulginbaah. Personable and highly respected, Reece is a standout young talent, and we are proud to see him continue his career progression with Te Akau.

We are also thrilled to formally appoint Michael Gray as Te Akau Racing Manager (NZ). Michael joins the Te Akau team with an impressive mix of academic and hands-on industry experience. A Palmerston North Boys’ High School old boy, Michael went on to complete a Bachelor of Commerce at Victoria University.

His racing experience includes 14 months at John O’Shea’s Randwick stable, where he gained invaluable insights into high-performance operations at the top level of Australian racing. Returning to New Zealand, Michael further expanded his industry knowledge through his role with New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR), working within the Bureau and Handicapping team.

Since joining Te Akau five months ago, Michael has quickly proven himself to be a valuable and versatile asset to the team. He has thrown himself into every part of the operation - from strapping winners to managing logistics - and his professionalism and work ethic have shone through. He is now looking forward to stepping into this leadership position and continuing to build strong relationships with our owners.

Te Akau Principal David Ellis CNZM commented: 

"At Te Akau, we pride ourselves on creating meaningful career pathways for passionate and talented young people, and both Reece and Michael embody the values we hold dear - excellence, integrity, dedication, and an enduring love for the horse. Their individual strengths will enhance our stable and contribute greatly to the New Zealand racing industry as a whole and we feel proud to have them both in the Te Akau team."