Kypros Kotzikas, a prominent figure in Christchurch’s business and harness racing communities, has made a significant impact on the sport over the past 45 years. As the founder of his very successful United Fisheries LTD business, Kypros brought his passion and dedication to harness racing, achieving remarkable success. He is notably the first modern-day owner to win both of New Zealand’s premier pacing and trotting races at Addington Raceway. His best two horses were undoubtably Iraklis and Master Lavros. Iraklis burst on the open class scene winning the 1996 NZ Pacing FFA before winning the NZ Cup the following year whilst Master Lavros won the prestigious Hellers Dominion Handicap Trot in 2013 and 2015. He was named Trotter of the Year in 2014.
Kypros’s contributions extend beyond his victories on the track. Together with his late wife Mary, he established Lavros Lodge, a breeding and training operation that has produced numerous winners over the years. Kypros’s commitment to the sport and his horses’ achievements have cemented his legacy in harness racing, making his induction into the Harness Racing Hall of Fame a well-deserved honour.
Kypros Kotzikas’s journey in harness racing began with a deep-rooted passion for the sport, which he shared with his late wife, Mary. Their joint venture, Lavros Lodge, became a cornerstone of their success, the pinnacle being Iraklis’s victory in the Cup. This was a testament to Kypros’s dedication and strategic vision in the sport.
Master Lavros, a horse bred and owned by Kypros, became a symbol of his success in harness racing. The gelding’s victories in the Hellers Dominion Handicap Trot in 2013 and 2015, along with the Rowe Cup in 2014, highlighted Kypros’s ability to nurture and develop top-tier racing talent. Master Lavros’s accolades, including being named “Trotter of the Year” in 2014, underscored the high standards and excellence that Kypros brought to the sport.
Master Lavros’s career was marked by numerous achievements. He won 20 races and was placed 15 times from 53 starts, including victories in two Canterbury Park Cups, Fred Shaw Memorial NZ Trotting Championship, as well as the Canam Rowe Cup at Alexandra Park. Trained and driven by Mark Jones, with assistance from Regan Todd later in his career, Master Lavros was an outstanding presence among the top trotters. Upon retirement, he has been well cared for on a farm in the Hakataramea Valley, and last year, he led the field out for the fast-class trot at Oamaru.
A key figure in Kypros’s harness racing journey has been outstanding horseman Robert Cameron. Cameron trained many of Kypros’s top horses, including Iraklis, and became a household name in harness racing. Cameron’s expertise and partnership with Kypros have been instrumental in achieving their remarkable successes.
Beyond the racetrack, Kypros’s influence extended to the broader harness racing community. His support for various trainers, the likes of Mark Jones and his investment in breeding and training facilities have left a lasting impact on the industry. Kypros’s legacy is not only marked by his horses’ achievements but also by his contributions to the growth and development of harness racing in New Zealand. His induction into the Harness Racing Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of his lifelong dedication and passion for the sport.
October 2024