Standard Bred TV

Standard Bred – NZSBA’s Harness Racing Television Series

In 2016, the New Zealand Standardbred Breeders Association launched a groundbreaking television series to celebrate and promote the people, horses, and heritage that shape our sport. The series, simply titled Standard Bred, aired on Trackside and was fronted by respected broadcaster and long-time harness racing advocate Sheldon Murtha.

Produced in collaboration with NZ Racing Board’s broadcasting division, the series spanned two seasons and thirteen episodes, offering viewers an inside look at the passion, knowledge, and character that define the Standardbred industry in New Zealand. Each episode showcased a different aspect of the breeding and racing game — from legendary farms and foundation broodmares to profiles of trainers, stallions, and industry pioneers.

With Sheldon Murtha’s signature warmth and insight, Standard Bred took audiences behind the scenes of a sport built on community and tradition. His interviews with breeders, horse people, and industry figures added colour and credibility, while beautiful on-farm and race footage gave the series wide appeal — both for lifelong harness followers and newcomers alike.

The programme helped elevate the profile of breeders at a national level and remains a proud example of NZSBA’s ongoing efforts to celebrate the breeding community’s contribution to harness racing. Though no longer in production, Standard Bred continues to serve as a valuable archive and a timeless introduction to the heartbeat of our sport.