Auckland Racing Club director Alistair Sutherland has been elected to the position of northern regional director on the Board of New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing.

Sutherland was appointed to the Board during the year to replace Rob McAnulty who had resigned.

Sutherland's appointment was challenged by Stephen Cole of the Counties Racing Club but in a landslide victory Sutherland attracted 104 votes compared to Cole's 10.

Sutherland has had a lifelong involvement in the New Zealand racing industry. In addition to his racing commitments he has supported a blue chip corporate career and now owns and directs a number of companies.

He has raced a number of quality horses over the years and has introduced many new owners into the Industry. Some of his best performers include G1 winner Iflooxcouldkill and current season performers (both 2 yo's by NZ stallion Howbaddouwantit) Howmuchyachargin (G1 placed) and I'm Insatiable who won her first start on 4 June.