Harness racing has a unique allure, blending speed, strategy, and an intimate connection between horse and driver. At the core of this exhilarating sport are Pacers, a breed of Standardbred horses specifically trained to move their legs in a lateral gait, which allows them to maintain incredible speed while pulling a sulky. For both seasoned fans and newcomers, understanding pacers is key to appreciating the spectacle of harness racing—and nowhere is this more evident than at Off n Racing, New Zealand's fastest-growing harness racing syndication company.

The Unique World of Pacers

Pacers differ from trotters in their gait: while trotters move their legs diagonally, pacers move laterally, with the front and hind legs on the same side moving together. This seemingly simple difference has profound implications for racing strategy, training, and betting. Pacers tend to be faster and more consistent than trotters, making them the stars of many harness racing tracks around the world.

Their speed and rhythm require a combination of raw athleticism, careful training, and exceptional guidance from their drivers. Successful pacers often demonstrate remarkable intelligence and adaptability, responding to split-second decisions during a race. It’s this blend of power, agility, and strategy that makes pacers so exciting to watch and invest in.

Off n Racing: From Media Brand to Harness Racing Syndication Powerhouse

Off n Racing started in early 2017 as a media brand designed to support racing stables and clubs with their social media presence. The company quickly identified a gap in the harness racing industry: while fans and enthusiasts loved the sport, there was little structured opportunity for everyday people to engage as owners. Recognizing this, Off n Racing evolved into New Zealand’s fastest-growing harness racing syndication company.

The first milestone in this journey came on a cold Friday night at Addington Raceway, 30th June 2017, when Living Glory recorded her first win. Not only was this the first victory for the horse, but it was also the first win wearing the distinctive white and blue silks of Off n Racing Syndications. That night marked the beginning of a new chapter for harness racing in New Zealand, proving that passion and strategic innovation could create opportunities for thousands of people to participate in this thrilling sport.

Pacers and the Syndication Model

Off n Racing’s syndication model revolves around making ownership accessible. Instead of purchasing an entire racehorse—which can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars—enthusiasts can buy shares in a horse. These shares grant them the thrill of ownership, a stake in prize money, and the chance to follow the horse’s progress closely.

Pacers, with their consistent speed and higher racing frequency, are particularly suited to syndication. They compete regularly, which increases the excitement for shareholders and provides more opportunities to witness victories on the track. Off n Racing currently owns shares in 17 Standardbreds, many of whom are pacers, and 4 Thoroughbreds. With over 400 individual owners involved, the community around these horses continues to grow, proving that harness racing is no longer an elite pursuit—it’s a shared experience.

The Training and Care Behind Pacers

Owning a pacer is more than just celebrating victories. It’s about understanding the dedication required to train these incredible animals. Pacers undergo meticulous training programs tailored to their physical and mental capabilities. Their diet, exercise regimen, and rest periods are carefully monitored to ensure peak performance and longevity.

Off n Racing’s approach prioritizes both the welfare of the horse and the satisfaction of its owners. Trainers and drivers work closely with each pacer, analyzing strengths, identifying potential weaknesses, and devising race strategies that maximize performance. The result is not just a winning horse, but a well-cared-for athlete capable of performing at the highest level consistently.

Why Pacers Captivate Fans

For fans, pacers offer more than speed—they bring drama and suspense to the track. Their lateral gait produces a fluid, mesmerizing motion, creating a spectacle that is both elegant and intense. Each race is a narrative, with horses maneuvering for position, drivers executing split-second decisions, and the crowd collectively holding its breath as the finish line approaches.

Off n Racing enhances this experience by providing detailed insights and updates on their horses, making fans feel intimately connected. Through social media, race-day updates, and behind-the-scenes content, shareholders and followers become part of the journey, celebrating victories and sharing in the occasional heartbreak.

The Future of Harness Racing with Off n Racing

Looking ahead, the future of pacers—and harness racing in New Zealand—appears brighter than ever. Off n Racing continues to expand its portfolio, attracting new owners and introducing fresh talent to the track. With more people participating in syndications, the sport benefits from increased investment, media attention, and fan engagement.

Moreover, the continued success of pacers underscores the importance of innovation in training, ownership models, and fan interaction. Harness racing is evolving from a traditional sport into an inclusive, community-driven experience, where anyone with a passion for the track can participate meaningfully.

Conclusion: More Than a Race

Pacers are more than just athletes—they are symbols of speed, strategy, and the enduring human-horse connection. Through Off n Racing’s innovative syndication model, thousands of people can now share in the excitement of owning and following these magnificent horses.

As the sport grows and technology enhances fan engagement, one must consider the broader implications: How can harness racing continue to evolve while staying true to its traditions? What new innovations could make ownership even more accessible? And perhaps most importantly, how will pacers, with their unique gait and captivating presence, continue to inspire both the sport and its community?

One thing is certain: for fans and owners alike, every race is more than a contest—it’s a shared story, a thrilling spectacle, and a testament to what happens when passion meets opportunity on the track.