NZ Racing News was launched at the start of the 2007 Auckland Cup Carnival and that first day in March will well be remembered for the sensation caused after the running of the Gr I Mercedes Derby, won by the Sydney raider Redoute's Dancer.

Right from the day of that bizarre allegation by Lisa Cropp after the 2007 Derby, NZ Racing News has continually brought readers regular up-to-date daily news from throughout the country as well as abroad.

There have been too many memorable racetrack highlights to list here, but I am proud of the fact NZ Racing News repeatedly broke the news first.

It was always my intention to give a nationwide coverage and I believe the website did its best to provide reports from both the North and South Islands, being on course for meetings ranging from the deep south to the far north.

Racing is a nationwide industry and every club deserves recognition, particularly on its big day in the sun.

NZ Racing News has been fortunate to follow the paths of many modern day NZ galloping greats, including being on hand for Seachange's Gr I glory and her bid against international opposition at the 2008 Dubai World Cup (the richest racemeeting in the world), and the back-to-back Kelt Capital Stakes wins of Princess Coup.

There has also been comprehensive coverage of this country's National Yearling Sales, where the dreams begin for many owners.  

Photographs have always been important to NZ Racing News and from the smiles of the winners to the pain, as illustrated by Scott Seamer when nursing his injured foot after winning this year's $2.25 million Telecom NZ Derby, the photographs have complimented the articles.

I wanted to capture not only the colour and excitement of racing, but also the highs and lows, putting readers right in the picture, so to speak.

Special thanks to everyone who has helped with NZ Racing News over the years, particularly my fellow journalist Paul Vettise, and secretary, Nell Somervell. Without their input the website would not have been sustainable for so long.

The tireless work of race analyst Axeman, bringing readers indepth weekly previews, selections as well as reviews of Group I races, is deeply appreciated. I know many of the readers benefited from his constant supply of winners, most of the tips being at very good odds.

The trackwork clockers deserve recognition and  a special mention must also be given to the association with the No. 1 Australian website, http://www.racingandsports.com.au/.

I am also very grateful for the support of the sponsors and, most of all, you loyal subscribers from far and wide, including many overseas. I do hope all readers enjoyed the NZ Racing News ride and many of you had the added thrill of being a TAB Fixed Odds winner. All subscribers will be individually contacted. 

I deeply regret having to close NZ Racing News, but wish everyone within the industry the best of luck and may success come your way.

Wally O'Hearn (editor)