Pony Racing is an exciting sport that’s been administered in Ireland, England, and the US for some time. It varies slightly from country to country but is a sport that predominantly involves young riders and their ponies competing on a racecourse.
An unforgettable two-day event open to Pony Club Australia members of ALL ages and ANY size pony or horse! Whether you’re new to pony racing or simply want to improve your skills, this is where your journey begins.
Day 1: Learn from experienced coaches about horse health, riding techniques, and building race-ready skills like balance and control.
Day 2: Test your abilities in a fun, gymkhana-style event at a racecourse! Riders will get to practice on the track while having a blast.
Camping facilities will be available for those traveling to the event, making it easier for everyone to participate and enjoy the full experience.
Pony Racing is for Pony Club members, so please make sure you are a current member of to join the fun.
Ready for the adventure? Keep an eye on the socials of Thoroughbred Industry Careers and Pony Club Australia, and the PCA e-newsletter for sign-up details when they open in your state.
Invitational-only training sessions for riders keen to compete in a State Qualifying Race. These are more advanced days where selectors look for riders who demonstrate safety, control, and readiness to race – it’s about skill, not speed!
The real excitement begins! Finalists from each state compete at major Thoroughbred racecourses in two pony height divisions (12.2hh and 14hh categories). Don the silks of major sponsors, and race under the guidance of leading jockeys and racing professionals.
The best of the best! First and second placegetters from each state race will compete in the National Finals – location and date to be revealed during the season. The 2023 Finals were held at the prestigious Royal Randwick – where will Season Two take us?
*All riders must be a current Pony Club Member
All ages and sizes of riders who can walk, trot and canter independently and in a group situation are welcome to come and learn new skills. At these JUMPSTART WEEKENDS, riders who wish to progress to the next level (and are within the Pony Race selection criteria) will be invited to progress to the next stage of Pony Racing, the TRAINING DAYS.
450m Race: Ponies not exceeding 12.2hh (Riders aged 9-15 years).
700m Race: Ponies not exceeding 14hh (Riders aged 9-15 years age, as of January 1, 2025).
PONY WELFARE
Safety comes first! All riders must comply with the weight ratio rule: The combined weight of the rider and tack must not exceed approximately 20% of the pony’s weight, following the PCA Horse Welfare Policy.
This initiative is open exclusively to Pony Club Australia members. Sign-ups aren’t open yet, but to stay in the loop and be the first to know when they are open in your state, keep an eye on the Thoroughbred Industry Careers and Pony Club Australia social media channels, as well as the PCA e-newsletter.
Pony Racing isn’t just about speed – it’s about learning, growing, and experiencing the excitement of racing in a supportive environment. Whether you’re new to racing or ready to take the next step, there’s a place for you in the National Pony Racing Series. Don’t miss your chance to join this thrilling journey.
Pony Club Australia (PCA) has been an instrumental organisation in Australia’s history, with around 850 clubs scattered right across the country, and over 40,000 members.
It was the first major sponsorship we planned before we launched TIC three years ago because we wanted to financially support this historical organisation for all the work they do, predominantly, through parents and volunteer helpers.
Cute alert!
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) December 4, 2021
The inaugural @mmsnippets pony race took place today 😍 pic.twitter.com/qDBlsaitJC
Photography credit: Luke Marsden & Michael McInally
