Calling all future Rachael Blackmores and William Buicks! If you love nothing more than shortening your stirrups for an exhilarating gallop, why not give pony racing a try?

This fast-growing, adrenaline-fuelled sport for riders aged nine to 16 is a great way to experience the thrill of riding on some of Britain’s premier racetracks.

But it’s also proving an essential foundation for future jockeys and point-to-point riders. Champion jump jockey Sean Bowen, young Flat racing star Billy Loughnane and Grand National hero Rachael Blackmore all learned their craft in pony ranks.

Group One-winning Flat jockey Hollie Doyle started out as an “uncompetitive” youngster on her Pony Club pony.

“As soon as I rode in a pony race, I knew I wanted to be a jockey,” she says.

The sport’s governing body, the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) is there to guide you every step of the way, from teaching you the basics through to your first official race and beyond, ensuring you and your pony progress at your own pace.

Pony racing: three steps to the racetrack

Step one: join a taster day

If you’re tempted by pony racing but unsure how to begin, your first port of call is to attend a PRA taster day. They are normally unmounted and tend to take place on the morning of a Pony Club race day, offering a great opportunity to watch the action as well as getting involved in all sorts of activities, such as refining your racing position on a mechanical horse and learning what tack and equipment is needed.

Step two: practice makes perfect on a training day

The next step is to take your pony to a PRA or Pony Club training day, where you’ll learn all the ingredients that go into race riding, from how to line up at the start to the balance, control and fitness required for riding in a forward seat.

These events also act as qualification for the upcoming season and are a great opportunity to meet fellow rookie jockeys. PRA advanced training days focus on the finer details, while the British Racing School, Scottish Racing Academy and National Horseracing College offer further courses.

Step three: under starters orders!

There are essentially three types of racing to take part in:

• Stand-alone Pony Club race days
• The point-to-point pony racing series 
• The PRA racecourse series, which is the premier league of pony racing and held at professional racecourses between May and October (suspended in May 2026 due to a flu outbreak)

Vine branch member William King-Harris, 11, competes in Pony Club race days and was hooked from day one.

“He came last in his first race, but he didn’t care, he just loved being a part of it. There’s great camaraderie and he loves the thrill of it all,” says his mother Charlotte King-Harris, who teams up with other families to hire out local gallops and makes use of the regular racing rallies hosted by their Pony Club.

William, who rides 148cm Bowhaylands Midnight, says: “I love it because you get to race with your friends and riding at proper racecourses makes you feel like a real jockey.”

Up to 10 races take place on Pony Club racedays, split into height sections, with categories from beginners to open riders. Two or three races are held at the point-to-point fixtures, catering for both novice and more experienced riders, with various championships to aim for.

When you’re ready to graduate to the showcase racecourse series, you’ll be competing either before or after professional racing, with each contest (138cm or 148cm and under) mirroring that of a real race, right down to a best turned out award.

Lucas Murphy, 16, who won his first race against the professionals in April, progressed through all three levels alongside his younger brother Finn.

“There’s no gender issue in pony racing – or racing itself – everyone’s on a level playing field,” says their mother Verity Green, who organises the popular Area 9 Pony Club race day at Cheltenham Racecourse.

“With the changing landscape of the UK, riding at speed across open fields is difficult for a lot of people, so pony racing gives you that opportunity.

“But it’s not just about lining up and going as fast as you can! Pony racing is a great skill for any rider to learn – it helps with balance, fitness and judgement of pace, which then applies across the disciplines.”

What you need to take up pony racing

Do I need a flashy pony, fancy silks and expensive racing saddle?

You absolutely don’t need a specialist pony – you don’t need a pony at all!

Head of the PRA Lucinda Campbell-Dutton says, “You can race any type of pony under 148cm”, with the only stipulation being that it is aged between four and 20. The only specialist equipment you need is the requisite safety gear.

Riders aged 11-16 who don’t have a pony but have regularly attended a riding school can apply to the PRA academy scheme, funded by The Racing Foundation and the Horserace Betting Levy Board.

Sally-Ann Dale, whose 12-year-old daughter Lucie competes in Pony Club race days on her home-produced ponies, hosts the PRA academy at her Ghyll Park Equestrian in East Sussex.

“What I think we lack at schools nowadays is team spirit and that’s what Ghyll Park is all about,” says Sally Ann. “I tell the kids that racing is not a team sport, but when you go to the start, you’re a team. Talk to each other and jump off together. I’m more than happy to help anyone.”

As Verity Green sums up, “The way that racing opens its doors and looks after the progression of its young riders is phenomenal. My children have had an absolute ball.”

So what are you waiting for? Head to ponyracingauthority.co.uk for further information and above all enjoy yourselves – let us know how you get on!

Meet the 2025 pony racing champion

Last season, Chloe Fox-Pitt notched up 15 straight wins with Avalon Dancer in the 138cm PRA racecourse series, including the Aintree final. The now 13-year-old is back with the mare in 2026, having also secured the ride on the prolific 148cm She’s A Corker. Chloe, daughter of racing presenter Alice Plunkett and retired five-star event rider William Fox-Pitt, also enjoys eventing, Pony Club and hunting.

How I began racing: “I got a racing Shetland for a Christmas present and did two seasons on him before I got former show pony Maesteg Ruth to do pony racing on. She was very experienced and taught lots of people to race ride.”

Top tips for starting out: “Get as much experience as you can. I went to various places to get training on the mechanical horse. I did three race training days with my pony just to get to grips with it all and to learn what to do.”

The secret of success: “A big part is having a fast pony, but learning when to go, when to pull and how to start a race are equally important. It took me a while to get to grips with Avalon Dancer because she was much hotter than my first pony, but having a pony as good as her last season was so much fun.”

The best aspect of pony racing: “I’ve made so many friends, got to ride at the big racecourses and speak to some amazing people about racing.”

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Top jockey Harry Skelton is helping to give young people a leg up into racing with the £500,000 he won in the 2025 David Power Jockeys’ Cup.

Harry has partnered with the Pony Racing Authority to launch the Skelton Scholarship, which will support four riders in its first year.

“I enjoy helping the younger generation. Hopefully this can give them some guidance and help,” said Harry.

“It’s a development programme created to offer our best young riders this opportunity to develop more of the skills they’ll need through their pony racing and hopefully into their professional careers.

“We want to create jockeys, great jockeys, and the next generation of well rounded horsemen and horsewomen. I love horses. I love racing, and I’m delighted to be able to help open some doors to those youngsters coming through into our industry.”

Speaking to broadcaster Nick Luck on Racing TV’s Luck on Sunday programme, Harry said: “We decided to set up a scholarship in my name off the back of winning the David Power Jockey Cup, for young pony racing riders to get one-to-one help from me throughout the season.

“Hopefully it’s something that can benefit some of the riders coming through.”

Grade One-winning former jockey Lizzie Kelly and the Pony Racing Authority’s Caroline Hutsby were also involved in creating the scholarship.

Harry said those on the programme will be able to bring their ponies to the yard for training and he will also give his support on racedays through course walks, an all-round insight into racing and help with their foundational riding skills.

“I grew up on ponies, showjumping and hunting. I was fortunate, I could follow my dad [Olympic showjumping gold medallist Nick Skelton] around everywhere and watch him. But some haven’t been in that position, so hopefully I can help some of the riders,” said Harry.

The David Power Jockeys’ Cup is a points-based competition, whereby jockeys are awarded points for winning and being placed in races televised live by ITV Racing. It last ran in the 2024/25 season and featured a £1.5m prize fund, including £500,000 to the winner.

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Turning words into action to ensure everyone can enjoy the horse world

The family of 13-year-old Jack de Bromhead has paid tribute to their “perfect, funny, loving son”, who died after a fall at Glenbeigh Racing Festival, County Kerry, yesterday (3 September).

The son of Grand National and Gold Cup-winning trainer Henry De Bromhead, who was often seen at his father’s side at the races and was making a name for himself as a young jockey, suffered critical injuries in the fall and could not be saved.

In a statement, his family said: “On 3 September, we said goodbye to our extraordinary, beautiful 13-year-old son Jack.

“A one-of-a-kind child who touched all our lives in the best way possible – he will forever be present in our lives. Always cherished, always loved, frozen in time with a beautiful young soul. He was an amazing son who told us he loved us every day – an over-brimming heart of loyalty, empathy, patience, pluck, courage and how he made us laugh!”

The statement added that as well as being “the perfect, funny, loving son”, Jack was also an “incredible, loving brother” to his twin sister Mia and younger sister Georgia.

“He always had their back and was fiercely loyal and kind,” they said. “Our hearts are truly broken.”

“He made so many friends wherever he went and they felt his special, unique and loyal touch on their lives too. We ask that they please celebrate and love him as we know he would have wished.

“Jack has lived so many more years than the 13 – he filled every moment of his days, always busy, forever curious, grasping at life and new interests. The passion he had for his family and friends extended to all his hobbies and interests – too many to fit into 13 years and certainly too busy to spend more than a minute more than he had to in the classroom! It started with his work on the farm, the tractor, the cattle, the ponies and horses. He was a passionate expert on them all by the time he was 10. By 11 he was offering expert advice and consultation to his father on training horses as he developed his fathers passion for all aspects of racing.”

Jack de Bromhead had recently started at a new school, and his family said he had made many friends by his second day.

“Jack’s friendships were of the deep and loyal kind and treasure by him,” they said.

“Jack, you will be with us always at home in your family and friends’ hearts. Always present, always cherished with so many memories from your packed, extraordinary life.

“Deeply loved and missed by your parents, Henry and Heather, your sisters Mia and Georgia, your grandparents Andrew, Marian, Harry and Sally, your aunts and uncles, extended family and friends.”

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She might only be 15 years old, but India Till has been at the top of the showing game for the majority of her career on show ponies. But recently, the talented young rider has forayed into the world of pony racing, giving her family’s former top level show pony the chance to enjoy a new job after an injury cut his own showing journey short.

Courtland (JP) Splendour (Harold) was a former Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) 138cm show pony finalist in 2015, but the gelding was unable to attend the final after he was kicked on the hock. After recovering from his injury, India took Harold on as a project, teaching him to jump and enjoying several hunting outings with him.

“Harold then suffered a leg injury after a freak accident in the field,” says India’s mother, Henrietta Till. “It was touch and go as to whether he’d make it, but thanks to our amazing vets he survived and made a full recovery.”

India, who had always wanted to race Shetlands but was unable to due to her height, decided to see if Harold had the potential to flourish in another sphere.

“She’s always been mad on racing and after a friend of hers had taken up pony racing, she decided to see if Harold would be a candidate for the job,” continues Henrietta. “Last November, once Harold was given the all clear to come back into work, she commenced his training as a racing pony. I wasn’t convinced that it would come off as Harold has his quirks and is tricky to ride.”

India, who was supreme pony champion at the 2019 Royal International with her late 138cm contender Drakemyre Puttin On The Ritz, began her training with Harold, building up his fitness and stamina. She used her prize money accumulated from her showing victories to source her racing kit and suitable tack and equipment for Harold.

In their second pony race together at Cotswold Vale Farmers, India and Harold led until the home straight and finished third out of 10 runners.

“As a parent I’ve been anxious and worried about her starting racing, but India is so dedicated, inspired and motivated to compete,” says Henrietta. “It’s a totally different sphere. On race day I just drive her to the venue and she does the whole thing herself. India has spoken to a nutritionist about the best feeding plan for Harold, follows racing form and goes to jockey training when she can. She likes to be so clued up and she now wants to be a jockey.”

India, who is home-schooled, trains Harold from home.

“Most of the ponies who race are trained at Newmarket, so I feel lucky that I can train him from home,” says India. “It’s great fun and I’m getting an insight into what life in the racing industry is like. I’d love to be a jump jockey, but I’m not sure my parents would be too keen on this career option!”

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Clarissa Daly on spotting future champions and making racing more accessible

There are three levels of pony racing; Pony Club, point-to-point – which takes place at 70 fixtures from January to June – and the Racecourse Series, which is 25 or so fixtures from April to October.

This year is obviously different, but we are still hoping to run at least 20 Racecourse Series fixtures from July to November. There are between two and three pony races run before or after the main programme, for children aged from nine to 16.

They need to qualify each year with their pony so we, or a Pony Club instructor, need to have seen them race. They’re all Flat races, from six furlongs to 1m3f and divided by pony height – 128cm, 138cm, and 148cm and under.

Pony racing is a great grounding to be a jockey and trainers like Andrew Balding and Richard Hughes will stay on or come early to a raceday to see who’s coming through.

You could see very early on that Tom Marquand was especially eye-catching. He was clever in a race. He didn’t win that many; in pony racing, it’s not about the winning because it’s so dependent on the pony. You’re always looking for the child who listens.

After the Racecourse Series, we have a debrief with jockeys and coaches. We know the ones who are improving, and heeding the advice will show the dedication to take it to the next stage.

Hollie Doyle was always a grafter, she put her head down and worked, and she was bright enough to say, “I need to get stronger.” That’s what she’s done and look at the result.

The majority have their own ponies, but we’re a close community. Children, and therefore their parents, become mates – if a child doesn’t have access to a pony, has an injured pony or has outgrown their own and needs a 14.2hh, there are a lot of loan ponies around.

My son Jimmy won a pony race at the Ledbury point-to-point a long time ago. I ran down the hill, jumping and screaming. Everything a ghastly embarrassing mother does – that was me!

We’ve been awarded a grant for £900,000 over five years from the Racing Foundation. The aim is to create “formal pathways” into racing and to take pony racing to areas it wouldn’t normally go to make it more accessible.

We already deliver training days, taster sessions and rallies to schools, riding centres and Pony Club branches. We can now roll this out further, to reach diverse audiences and those who have no way of accessing the sport.

Since 2013, we’ve been running schemes with inner-city riding schools and youth groups for children who don’t own ponies. We’ve had more than 100 children through and 35 of them are now working in racing.

One boy is now working for trainer Eve Johnson Houghton and is going to the British Racing School to get his apprentice licence, and one of the girls is now second travelling head person to Sir Mark Prescott.

Another success is St James City Farm, an inner-city riding school in Gloucester. Cheltenham Racecourse has sponsored a racing pony and another was donated by a charity, and those children now have the opportunity to go pony racing.

The best part of this job is the letters I receive; I had one from a parent which ends, “Who knows what the future holds, but I do know that without all the knowledge, support and kindness shown by yourself and Julie [an instructor] over the past five years, our daughter would not be where she is now, and for that we will always be grateful.”

Tyler Heard left us last year and is already having his first year as an apprentice. He’s got the same attributes as Tom Marquand – he’s a thinker, quietly determined, a grafter and a natural horseman. He’s one to watch.

● As told to Kate Johnson

This feature is also available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale Thursday 3 June 2021

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£900,000 grant to help give kids without their own pony chance of a lifetime

The funding comes with a particular focus on inclusivity and diversity, making pony racing available to more young people from

A grant of £180,000 a year from 2021 to 2025 has been announced to help bring more young people from all backgrounds into pony racing, with the aim of kickstarting their careers in the industry.

The Racing Foundation grant, totalling £900,000, is to develop formal pathways of activities as a progressive route into the racing industry.

The scheme will be overseen by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA), in collaboration with Racing to School, the Pony Club and Careers in Racing.

It will build on the work already done independently by those organisations, and others, and there is a particular focus on expanding the work around improving diversity and inclusion.

The PRA has already established links with inner-city groups in London, Gloucester, Liverpool, Banbury, Leicester and Worcester, but the funding will help widen this to reach youngsters in more Pony Club centres and inner-city riding schools.

“We are very excited to be part of this historic strategy,” said PRA chief executive Clarissa Daly.

“For the first time, racing will have a recruitment plan for its junior league. Introducing young people from all backgrounds, making it possible for them to participate in pony racing, will benefit racing in the long term.”

The money will go towards pony racing academies, for youngsters with no link to racing and no pony of their own, Pony Club camp visits, training days and pony racing days, taster sessions and fun days, careers advice and further training, training of pony racing instructors, school visits and recruitment fairs, plus stand-alone pony racing days.

There are also plans to develop a track and trace system to follow the progression of young people moving into racing.

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A study was commissioned by the PRA to look at barriers preventing children from engaging and taking part in pony racing, and a number of the activities have been developed in direct response to that.

“So often racing can seem out of reach to many, but these initiatives will take access to racing straight into the heart of communities and groups, giving them a chance to participate,” said Zoe Elliott, head of careers, marketing and recruitment at the British Horseracing Authority. “By getting involved, young people will both have the opportunity to increase their skills but also the confidence to see that racing welcomes them as a sport they could be involved in for life; as a fan, participant or employee”.

To date, more than 100 youngsters have taken part in pony racing academies across 28 schemes, and 21 graduates now work in the industry.

As of July 2020, 179 pony racing graduates hold a licence to ride in the UK, with graduates including Harry Cobdon, Hollie Doyle, Tom Marquand, Jonjo O’Neill Jr and Bryony Frost.

Tansy Challis, grants manager at the Racing Foundation, said of the activities it has helped fund in recent years, response to pony racing activities in particular has been very positive.

“The focus on inclusivity and diversity is especially important to protect the future of the sport and we believe that pony racing will provide the ideal conduit for a youth engagement programme that will shape the jockeys, racing staff and racing supporters of the future,” she added.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Young jockeys and their mini mounts took to the hallowed Ascot Racecourse turf on Monday, 8 April, during a pony-racing day organised by the Lord Leconfield branch of the Pony Club.

For many of the youngsters, racing is in their blood and they have become established jockeys in the racing saddle at a young age, but for five children on Monday, the day’s experience was a far cry from their home-life in the City.

The children from Ebony Horse Club in Brixton, London, have been trained up by coach Natalie O’Rourke at her Park Lane Stables in Teddington over a period of six months — enjoying two training sessions a month culminating in the Ascot raceday.

“I did a total of 12 sessions with the children, who are all from disadvantaged backgrounds without their own ponies to ride,” said Natalie. “They were all so committed to the training and I gave them fitness targets to work on at home, including some running and squat exercises.”

The training started in the sand school at Park Lane Stables on the riding school’s ponies, building the children’s balance and confidence, before they headed out on hacks in the parkland surrounding the yard.

During the final countdown to the raceday at Ascot, Natalie took the children and ponies to the point-to-point yard of Phil York in Effingham, Surrey, to use his gallops on Sundays.

“This helped the children become more competent going fast on the ponies and, although there were some tumbles along the way, all the children did brilliantly,” Natalie added.

“They had all had lessons at Ebony previously, but had never ridden at the standard of their fellow competitors at Ascot. My role as their coach was to build their confidence and teach them vital racing skills such as bridging their reins — they all worked so hard and I am very proud of them.

“All of their mounts were riding-school ponies from Park Lane Stables, which shows how versatile ponies can be.”

The icing on the cake came in the maiden 148cm race, when one of Natalie’s students, 12-year-old O’Shane Marsh (pictured, below), won on his debut aboard “the best all-rounder you could ever meet”, Dougie.

“All the children did so well on the day, but to get a winner was a fairytale,” added Natalie, who has been involved in the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) initiative for three years. “O’Shane was really chuffed with his achievement and his family was there to watch him, they were over the moon too. I think the cheer he received was louder than the one for Tiger Roll at Aintree on Saturday!

“The goal now for O’Shane is to pursue his dream of being a jockey and he will head to the British Racing School when he is old enough.”

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Natalie’s Park Lane Stables works collaboratively with Ebony Horse Club in an initiative funded by the PRA. Following the raceday at Ascot, there is a graduate scheme put in place by the PRA, which is designed to help young jockeys climb the ladder and progress onto faster ponies.

“The initiative is a great way for children, who have grown up in difficult circumstances and don’t have a pony, to channel their energy in a positive way,” she added. “For many who struggle at school, it is also a path into a career within the racing industry.

“It is brilliant to be involved in the scheme, after all everyone has to start somewhere. I will now start training another five children for a pony-racing day at Lingfield in October.”

The selection process for the young Ebony jockeys includes them writing a letter to the PRA explaining their wish to be on the pony-racing scheme.

“It is such a great opportunity for these children,” concluded Natalie. “Seeing them gallop past the finishing post at Ascot is always very special.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

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The first ever pony race took place at White Turf earlier this month (February 2019) on the frozen lake at St Moritz.

The spectators, wrapped up against the wintry elements, were treated to a field of youngsters aboard their mini mounts battling it out on the snow, alongside the main Flat racing.

The ponies can be up to a height of 140cm, and one of the smallest in the field was in fact one the oldest ponies, aged 19. There are different categories depending on the size of the ponies.

One young rider gunning for glory is 10-year-old Gian von Ballmoos, who lives near Zurich, and has been visiting White Turf since he was a baby and has racing in his blood.

“My father and two uncles were amateur jockeys and my grandfather was a breeder,” said Gian, who is already a pony racing victor.

Racing on the snow takes some brave riding whatever age you are but these youngsters show boldness beyond their years, and are not fazed by the concept of racing on the frozen white stuff.

Wearing special face masks to protect them from the frozen kickback, the young riders look like proper mini jockeys — honing their skills in the saddle and donning racing silks and white breeches. The ponies too are tiny versions of their larger counterparts.

“It is cold riding on the snow, and the kickback is very hard,” explained Gian.

The young rider clearly loves his riding, and racing in particular, and he has some big ambitions too.

“My dream is to ride at Royal Ascot because I want to ride in front of The Queen,” he said with a smile.

Since it’s inception in 1907, the White Turf has grown in popularity and, alongside the Flat racing and pony racing, there is trotting races and skijoring, a race which sees horses pulling people on skis.

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Young equestrians from an inner-city riding school made their racecourse debut at none other than the hallowed ground of Ascot earlier this week.

Members of Brixton’s Ebony Horse Club have been learning to race-ride over the past 18 months in a joint scheme with the Pony Racing Authority (PRA).

Four aspiring jockeys from south east London have been taking part in the initiative, which has also enlisted the help of Julie and Patrick Scott of Appletree Stud in Banbury.

On Monday (10 April), two of these members — Grace Mpungi and Abdus Mellah — both aged 13, rode in their first race at the Lord Leconfield Hunt’s Pony Club Raceday at Ascot.

Their respective rides were Eddy and Trigger, both leant by Park Lane Stables in Teddington.

“To begin with I felt a bit sick because I was so nervous,” said Grace. “The race went by in a flash — I went faster than I have ever been before and I was really proud of myself.

“For me to be racing at a prestigious place like Ascot gives me a great story to tell my family and friends. I would definitely do it again.”

They were joined by a support team of family, friends, volunteers, youth workers and fellow Ebony Horse Club members.

“I had an amazing day and loved the environment,” said Abdus (pictured, top).

“It was a good learning opportunity and it taught me what I should and shouldn’t do for next time.

“I went so fast as I rode up I could see the stands and the scenery was mind blowing. I had this rush of adrenaline. I love racing!”

Ebony Horse Club is a charity that offers young people an opportunity to learn to ride and care for horses.

Based between tower blocks and a railway line in Coldharbour — one of the most disadvantaged areas of the capital — the charity provides access to horses for more than 160 youngsters a week.

Edward Gillespie, former managing director at Cheltenham and PRA chairman, has been among those helping the young riders. He also attended the day and gave the supporters a tour of the world-famous racecourse and to explain the ins and outs of racing.

“Seeing Grace and Abdus ride so well in their first ever races was a real thrill,” he said. “Many, many congratulations to all the team at Ebony Horse Club for taking this project on with such enthusiasm and expertise.

“This is just the beginning and the PRA looks forward to working with Ebony and other city-centre equestrian academies to give young people an opportunity to fulfill a dream of experiencing race-riding.”

Letty Porter, engagement and funding manager at Ebony Horse Club, told H&H that it was the “most amazing day”.

“To have Brixton riders on Ascot racecourse was just incredible,” she added. “What was amazing about the whole day was that it was a replica of a professional race meeting.

“The young riders had to be registered and weigh-in with their saddles — it was all done very properly — and there were escort ponies to take the combinations down to the racetrack.

“That was what made it so incredibly special.”

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A teenager who trains on a wooden horse has enjoyed her first taste of racing success.

Olivia Tubb, 13, won a 138cm race at a Pony Club raceday at Cheltenham last month (25 March).

The youngster has never owned a pony but her father Paul built her a wooden horse for her to practise her technique at home.

Olivia makes the four-hour round trip to train at Julie and Patrick Scott’s Apple Tree Stud, a Pony Club Centre in Banbury, once a month and won on their pony Mouse.

“Mouse was so brave, he really tried. I knew that if I kept pushing he would keep going all the way to the line,” she said.

“Ruby Walsh is my favourite jockey and to win at Cheltenham where he has had so much success is a dream come true, I still can’t quite believe it actually happened.”

Her wooden horse is named Troy, after both the Greek legend and the 1979 Derby winner.

“Because Olivia doesn’t have her own pony to practise on, I decided to design and build her one – quite a challenge for someone who has no carpentry skills,” said Mr Tubb.

“Olivia and Troy have climbed the Cheltenham hill and passed the winning post in front of their rivals countless times over the past eighteen months but never dared imagine the dream would turn to reality.”

Olivia, who would like to become a jockey when she is older, completed a 12-week youth training scheme run by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) at the Banbury centre last year.

Related articles:

• Swapping ponies for pointers: teen makes history
• ‘It was the biggest thrill I have ever felt’: youth scheme graduate rides in first point-to-point
• What is being done to encourage young riders? H&H investigates

The industry-funded scheme is designed for children who cannot take part in pony racing because of financial or other circumstances.

The aim is to get youngsters fit, skilled and ready to take part in a real pony race.

“We know there are children who have the talent to become jockeys, but need a helping hand to access the opportunities,” said PRA chief executive Clarissa Daly.

“With Olivia having completed the scheme in 2015, and raced three times that year, it was clear that she has the commitment and ability to take her training further.”

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A teenager has made history by making a winning swap from ponies to pointers in one day.

Ben Godfrey rode in his final point-to-point pony race at the Seavington Hunt fixture at Littlewindsor, Dorset, on 17 April, before switching silks to ride a winner in his point-to-point debut.

Ben came second in the 148cm race on Calypso (pictured) before his victorious ride in the opening Hunt Members race on the Chloe Newman-trained Sobre Tresor.

An experienced pony racer with 10 wins, the 16-year-old became eligible to ride in point-to-points on his birthday in March.

“Having to make such a quick change after the pony race meant Ben didn’t have time to worry about his next ride,” said his mother, Sally Godfrey.

“His main aim was to get round, and the horse is a lovely schoolmaster type, perfectly capable. Ben rode to orders and it couldn’t have gone better for him.”

Ben’s training was boosted by a £500 RaceTech graduate award from the Pony Racing Authority.

This is given to the rider gaining the most points through point-to-point pony racing over a season, and who is planning to and eligible to ride in adult point-to-point races the following season.

He also spent two days at the British Racing School in February.

“Having the RaceTech graduate award has made a great difference in helping with costs of training and competing – he’s also done some riding out,” added Ms Godfrey.

“Having hunted with the Seavington last season, Ben’s really ready to go pointing now — even though he hasn’t been quite as ready to give up his pony to his little brother.”

Related articles:

• ‘It was the biggest thrill I have ever felt’: youth scheme graduate rides in first point-to-point
• What is being done to encourage young riders? H&H investigates
• Pony racing scheme comes to inner-city London

Clarissa Daly, of the Pony Racing Authority, said the organisation is always looking for ways to give young jockeys “a helping hand”.

“Pony racing is proving to be a very strong foundation for young people to enter the horse racing industry,” she said.

“This special graduate award from RaceTech gives the best jockeys who are coming to the end of their pony racing a significant financial boost to take up extra training and competition opportunities, and get ready to enter the adult world of racing.”

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Despite the overall number of riders falling over the past few years, figures show “significant growth” in young people riding.

The British Equestrian Trade Association’s 2015 survey found the number of riders aged between 16 and 24 had risen from 368,000 in 2011 to 403,000 in 2015 — an increase of 35,000.

This was despite total rider numbers dropping from 3.5m to 2.7m.

The Pony Club and riding schools have long served as introductions to the equestrian world for young riders.

With more than 28,000 members in the UK in 2014, the Pony Club is invaluable for young horse enthusiasts. As well as these, it has more than 14,000 centre members across the world — these are young riders without their own horse or pony who ride at a riding school linked to the Pony Club.

But alongside this, individual sporting bodies are coming up with their own ways of supporting young riders too.

Opportunities for all

Racing leads the way in giving young people from all backgrounds a solid entry into the industry.

The British Racing School (BRS), founded in 1983, has trained more than 3,500 young people on its level two diploma (formally NVQ2) course, who have gone on to work in the industry.

This figure does not include those who have completed the school’s other courses.

The apprenticeship diploma, funded by the government and the racing industry, welcomes students from all walks of life.

Operations manager Clare Kingston told H&H it is “really important” to the BRS that the training remains free for the students.

“The majority of the population come from urban areas and might not have access to horses,” she told H&H. “But that doesn’t mean they cannot learn to love the sport, regardless of personal experience and financial situation.”

In total, the BRS has 42 courses currently advertised on its website — ranging from summer camps to courses in bookkeeping right up to obtaining various jockey licences.

At the younger end is the pony racing academy, for eight- to 15-year-olds. Funded by the Racing Foundation and individual sponsors, the 12-week scheme is again free.

“This is a really important way to allow children that would not normally be involved in racing to have free training,” Ms Kingston said.

The Northern Racing College also offers free tuition on its 12-week residential foundation course — open to complete beginners and experienced riders. Like the BRC, it also runs other programmes.

The idea of making racing more accessible is also being developed by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA).

The PRA was founded in 2007 as a governing body for the sport. In 2014, it started a youth scheme for 11- to 14-year-olds who do not have their own ponies.

Currently, it has schemes running in Gloucester and Banbury, and aims to establish more in other cities, such as Glasgow. Of the five children on the first scheme, one is now a point-to-point jockey and three others work in the industry.

“None of them would have gone into racing without this scheme because they did not know about the sport,” PRA’s Clarissa Daly told H&H.

“Some of the children we are getting now have been riding in Pony Club centres, looking for something else to do.”

She added it is “vital” the scheme remains free for the benefit of the children, industry and pony racing as a whole.

“By giving these children an opportunity, even if they just do one race, they have had a taste of something they would not have had a chance to do otherwise,” she said.

Sporting success

Last year the British squad at the pony European Dressage Championships made history by winning team gold — the first time Team GBR has won at this level.

The British Young Riders’ Dressage Scheme, set up in the 1980s, provides support and training for all members at their own level from the age of six.

“I would hope there is something for everybody,” said British Dressage’s (BD) Karen Ryder. “I think it is very important to give that support, especially at the lower levels and for the younger riders.

“It takes the pressure off a little bit: they can compete against others at the same level as them — it is meant to be fun.”

As well as this, BD has support for riders who want to “go professional”.

The organisation is also trying to find a way of supporting keen youngsters who may not have their own horse.

“It is not easy,” she said. “We are looking at having riding schools more involved.”

Over the past 30 years the British youth eventing squads have won more than 100 medals at European level.

British Eventing’s (BE) Chris Farr said the youth teams have been “phenomenally successful”.

“It is absolutely essential to have a fully-supported and well structured process for any rider coming in,” he told H&H.

He said the opportunities for young people coming into the sport have expanded and developed.

Formerly called the junior regional novice (JRN) initiative, the under-18 programme has regional training and competitions for riders from the age of 12 — but you do need your own horse. There is also a clear route for riders to move to high-performance schemes and aim for international teams.

BE launched its charitable arm in 2014 to give both members and non-members, of all ages, more training opportunities.

“The Try Eventing days and the Go BE80/90 courses are all intended at welcoming and introducing people to the sport,” Mr Farr added.

What next?

Like dressage and eventing, British Showjumping (BS) has schemes to support young people in the sport.

London 2012 gold medallist Peter Charles recently raised the idea of helping young riders to reach the top end of the sport, by showcasing their talent where the right owners and sponsors will see them.

He suggested that Olympia’s under-23s championship be expanded into a full “young lions” tour (comment, 11 February).

His idea is to run classes for talented young riders at some of the bigger shows, like Hickstead, Olympia and Windsor.

“Young up-and-coming talent is always interesting,” he told H&H. “If these youngsters could be seen alongside the seniors at senior shows, their exposure would be greater.”

Ref: H&H 3 March, 2016

The first graduate of a pony racing scheme for horseless youngsters has made her point-to-point debut.

Annabel Willis, 16, was one of the first teenagers to graduate from the Pony Racing Authority’s (PRA) youth training scheme based at Appletree Stud, Banbury.

The PRA runs fully-funded programmes for 11-14 year olds who do not own a pony and who couldn’t otherwise take part in pony racing due to financial or other circumstances.

Annabel rode in the ladies’ open at the Heythrop’s fixture on 24 January at Cocklebarrow racecourse in Gloucestershire.

“I wasn’t lucky enough to have my own pony growing up, but I never saw that as an issue, more an obstacle to overcome,” said Annabel.

“Completing the scheme meant that, as well as riding in a Pony Club pony race at Cheltenham, I learned about the different roles in racing and developed some of the skills needed for the industry.”

Annabel, a student at Moreton Morrell, rode My Minds Maid for Stratford-based trainer Francesca Nimmo and pulled-up two fences from home.

“We are delighted with the progress Annabel has made over the last 16 weeks, having had very little experience on racehorses,” said Francesca.

“Her hard work has paid off and she certainly did not look out of place on her debut on Sunday. Pony racing has obviously provided her with a fantastic grounding.”

Annabel, who learnt to ride at a riding school, combines riding out for Francesca with studying for an equine management diploma at college.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better race to have my first spin — it was the fastest seven minutes of my life,” she said.

“The best thing by far was jumping a racehorse at speed over the fences in the pack — it was the biggest thrill I have ever felt.”

Clarissa Daly, of the PRA, said that Annabel is a “fantastic role model” for young riders.

“I am delighted that our youth training scheme, through the coaching and mentoring of Julie and Patrick Scott at Appletree Stud, has given Annabel the boost she needed to start a career in racing,” she added.

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A rule change has made it easier for aspiring jockeys to give pony racing a go.

The Pony Racing Authority (PRA) has relaxed the height certificate requirement for combinations competing in their first season.

First-timers can now take part in the point-to-point pony race series for one season, within their area, without a Joint Measurement Board (JMB) height certificate.

“It is to make it easier for people to have a go at pony racing,” Clarissa Daly of the PRA told H&H.

“We are really trying to make the sport more inclusive for people to come and try.”

Mrs Daly added that combinations will still be subject to the same PRA regulations as all other competitors.

“If their pony is deemed to be in the wrong height category, the PRA will request they have their pony measured before they are allowed to run again,” she said.

Point-to-point pony racing runs until early June, with the Cambridgeshire with Enfield Chace fixture at Horseheath kicking off the season on 7 February.

Riders are still required to be members of the PRA and must qualify through the normal channels.

This includes either attending a joint PRA/Pony Club training day or a level three training day at the British Racing School or Northern Racing College, or four working Pony Club Rallies or four days hunting with a recognised pack.

The PRA is involved with a number of projects to encourage more children to try the sport.

The organisation runs courses at Appletree Stud in Banbury and St James’ City Farm in Gloucester to give youngsters a chance to learn to race, who otherwise might not have the opportunity.

It is also working with members of Ebony Horse Club in Brixton, London.

For more information, visit: www.ponyracingauthority.co.uk/point-to-point-series/

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Promising young riders were recognised at the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) awards.

Members and families attended an awards dinner on Sunday (29 November) to celebrate the achievements of the youngsters who took part in the Charles Owen Racecourse Series in 2015.

Attendees enjoyed a tour of Nicky Henderson’s yard to meet some of the stars before heading to Sheeprove Eco Conference Centre for a roundup of the year and presentation of awards.

“We would like to thank all the families who have taken part in the series this year, and we look forward to seeing lots of members and lots of new faces on the racecourses next year,” said a spokesman for the PRA.

They thanked the Prince Family, RaceTech and CareersinRacing for their sponsorship of the awards and Charles Owen for their sponsorship of the series.

Award winners

Finals awards

Winner of 148cm final AJ O’Neill

Winner of 138cm final Sophie Smith

Winner of 148cm conditions final Rachael Sharpe

Winner of 138cm conditions final Minty Bloss

Rose bengal awards presented by Richard and Dawn Prince

Rose Bengal leading rider 148cm James Bowen

Rose Bengal leading rider 138cm Sophie Smith

Rose Bengal scholarship awards presented by Richard and Dawn Prince

Rose Bengal scholarship winner 148cm Connor Murtagh

Rose Bengal scholarship runners up 148cm Ben Godfrey

Thomasina Eyston

William Humphrey

Abbie McCain

Connor Brace

Rose Bengal scholarship winner 138cm Tamby Welch

Rose Bengal scholarship runners up 138cm Tyler Heard

Ger Supple

Daniel Cox

RaceTech Graduate Award 2015 presented by Catherine Pullan of RaceTech

Winner Joshua Bryan

Runner up William Cox

Fourth Sam Burton

Fourth Bruce Lynn

CareersinRacing best turned out presented by Zoe Elliot of CareersinRacing

Winner 138cm Tyler Heard and Charlie Todd

Winner 148cm Roy Day

The most widely travelled during 2015 Charles Owen Series

Michael Treneer who took part in 13 Charles Owen Races

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Aspiring jockeys from South London are preparing to have their first taste of racing.

The Pony Racing Authority (PRA) has teamed up with Ebony Horse Club (EHC) in Brixton to give children a chance to learn to race-ride.

EHC is an inner-city charity that offers young people an opportunity to learn to ride and care for horses.

Based between tower blocks and a railway line in Coldharbour, the charity provides access to horses for more than 160 youngsters a week.

“We work with young, disadvantaged children and our aim is to open up life for them,” said Linda Hinds of the charity.

In May, EHC members visited Lingfield races, where they were given a behind the scenes tour and also presented prizes.

“Two weeks later, Clarissa Daly [PRA chief executive] got in touch with us to see if some of our members would be interested in pony racing,” Linda told H&H.

“We thought ‘this is really exciting’.”

Four young members aged between 11-14 years old have been chosen to take part in the scheme.

The aim is for them to compete in their first race in the spring on one of the charity’s ponies.

Julie and Patrick Scott from Appletree Stud in Banbury kick-started the training session in Brixton at the beginning of the summer holidays.

As well as mounted training, the youngsters have been strengthening their muscles using space hoppers and balance boards.

Ollie McPhail, the British Horseracing Education and Standards Trust’s lead education officer, also ran an Equicizer training session for members.

“They are loving it – absolutely loving it,” said Linda.

“It is another opportunity for them. We do quite a lot with them, they have been doing quite a bit of polo over the summer.”

On Tuesday (18 August) the young jockeys and ponies put their skills into practice on a gallops for the first time at Parwood Equestrian Centre in Guildford, Surrey.

The PRA runs a similar scheme at Appletree Stud near Banbury, Oxon, which started two years ago.

The idea behind it is to provide children who otherwise would not be able to try pony racing to have a go.

“From that, we then realised we could also take the scheme into inner cities,” chief executive of the PRA Clarissa Daly told H&H.

She added this gives more children the opportunity to try pony racing who might not have had the chance before.

“We are looking to show children that there is a whole wealth of jobs they can do in racing,” she said.

The programme started at EHC in July and is also running at St James City Farm in Gloucester.

Both centres have been provided with an Equicizer for the children to practice on over the winter.

The schemes are funded by the PRA with money from the British Horseracing Authority and the department for culture, media and sport.

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RaceTech

The technical and broadcast service provider has agreed to sponsor an award of up to £500 for pony racing graduates at the end of the season.

The award is open to individuals looking to go on to work within the racing industry.

The funds will be available to help with equipment, travel or training courses costs.

Winners will be revealed on 29 November at the Pony Racing Authority awards lunch.

RaceTech is also sponsoring a gallops training opportunity provided by Patrick and Julie Scott.

Open to those who have been part of the PRA Youth Training Scheme or BRS/NRC academy graduates, the training scheme will run on the first Saturday of each month starting from September.

The sessions will be held at an Oxfordshire venue on an Appletree Stud pony.

Email Clarissa Daly at ponyracingauthority@thejockeyclub.co.uk for details.

Pontispool Equine Sports Centre

Eventer Alex Bragg has signed a sponsorship deal with the Somerset-based centre.

Alex, a qualified farrier who has ridden up to three-star level, will have access to the facilities at Pontispool.

These include more than 200 cross-country fences and a three-acre arena, which also has permanent cross-country fences in it.

“Having use of the superb facilities at Pontispool will help us enormously,” said Alex.

“It is a fantastic place with everything you could ask for in terms of schooling young horses and giving the more experienced ones a school.”

Aloeride

A two-year title sponsorship deal has been signed between Aloeride and the Home International Endurance Team Championships.

The championships run from 2-4 October this year at the British Horse Feeds Red Dragon Festival of Endurance at the Royal Welsh Showground.

Han Van De Braak, managing director of the aloe vera supplement company, said: “To be involved at this level with such a fantastic event offered us the perfect opportunity to highlight our synergy with the endurance world.”

Snowflake

The Pony Club’s regional tetrathlon championships held in Leicestershire were sponsored by the equestrian bedding company.

Held at Aylesford Lodge Farm, Melton Mowbray, on 9-10 August, the event was contested by pony clubbers from across the UK and Ireland.

Snowflake provided their supreme equestrian bedding for the stables plus rosettes for the winning teams and individuals.

Organisers said they were “immensely grateful” for Snowflake’s renewed support.

Centtrip

Currency exchange service Centtrip has made a sponsorship agreement with showjumper Scott Brash.

The company is supporting him across all his Global Champions Tour (GCT) appearances.

He will also be riding under team Centtrip at the Rolex Grand Slam final in Calgary in September.

“He is at the top of his sport, and it is an honour to be associated with him,” said Brian Jamieson, co-CEO of Centtrip.

“The equestrian global audience travel frequently and we believe showjumping is a very good fit for our business.”

Bosom Buddies

The sports bra specialists are sponsoring dressage rider Amy Woodhead.

Amy, who has competed on the 2013 European Young Rider Dressage team, rides for Carl Hester.

“I am active all day so need to find a bra that was comfortable but supportive,” said Amy.

“My Bosom Buddies bras are great under any top as they are neat and comfortable but totally supportive.”

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The race is on to find the next budding AP McCoy. Twenty-four pony riders from up and down the country will converge on Newbury Racecourse on 21 September for the finals of the 2014 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series.

Last year’s 138cm final winner, James Bowen, the 13-year-old son of Welsh trainer Peter Bowen, will contest the 148cm final this time round, while other notable names in the line-ups include Abbie and Ella McCain, daughters of Grand National winning trainer Donald McCain, and Jonjo O’Neil’s two sons, Jonjo O’Neill (Jnr) and AJ O’Neill.

Clarissa Daly, chief executive of the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) said: “We are so grateful to Newbury Racecourse for staging these prestigious finals and to Charles Owen who have supported pony racing since 2005. Pony racing graduates are really beginning to make their mark in the jockey ranks — both as amateurs and professionals. The sport provides a fantastic beginning for all those who want to work in the industry either by riding or in other jobs.”

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Budding jockeys who don’t own a pony can still have a go at the sport, thanks to a scheme by the Pony Racing Authority.

The PRA youth training scheme starts on 4 October and is for children aged 11-14 who do not own their own ponies and are unable to participate in pony racing due to financial or circumstantial reasons.

Alecia Smith took part in last year’s course.

“I enjoyed every second of the 12-week course and would recommend it to anyone. My next step is to try and find a racing pony to loan,” she said.

The course will comprise 12 Saturday morning sessions, with the chance to participate in a pony race if the required standard is reached.

The course is fully funded and includes hire of ponies and equipment but each rider will need to provide their own safety equipment including a riding helmet, body protector and riding boots.

Clarissa Daly from the PRA told H&H: “We are delighted, with the backing of British Horseracing Authority grant funding, to be able to offer the chance to pony race to children from every walk of life — whether they have the means to take part or not.

“This scheme is open to everyone who wants to be a jockey but may not have the knowledge or means to start”.

More information on the scheme

First published in Horse & Hound magazine on Thursday 4 September

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The British Racing School (BRS) is taking applications for its Pony Racing Academy. The next 12-week course begins in December, following interviews on Saturday 26 October.

The Pony Racing Academy enables children aged between 13 and 15 to gain first-class tuition on the school’s racing ponies over 12 consecutive Saturdays.

The course is open to children who do not have their own ponies and would not otherwise have the opportunity to become involved with the fast-growing sport of pony racing.

Each session takes place at the BRS in Newmarket from 8am to 12pm. Besides race-riding lessons, students are tutored on horse management, feeding, and every aspect of preparing a pony for the races.

Students who have attained a suitable standard of riding by the end of the course may be offered the chance to take part in a pony race on one of the school’s ponies.

The course, which is funded by individual benefactors of the British Racing School, is free of charge and open to children who are already competent at walk, trot and canter. Applicants must weigh less than 9st 7lbs (60kg), be physically fit and be able to commit to attending each of the 12 weekly sessions.

“We’ve had a tremendous response since starting the Pony Racing Academy 2 years ago,” said BRS finance director Gemma Waterhouse.

“There are plenty of children out there who are cracking young riders that otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to get involved with pony racing, which has become so popular in recent years.

“The benefit to those children who have already been through the academy has been obvious, with a number of them now intent on pursuing a future career in the racing industry.

“We are immensely grateful to our individual sponsors who have provided the funding to make this happen.”

For information or to obtain an application form, contact Sarah Hayde-Salter on tel: 01638 665103 or Sarah@brs.org.uk

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More than 50 children attended the pony racing “Buzz Day” in Newmarket last weekend (12 October) designed to give children an insight into the sport.

The British Racing School invited children aged 8 to 15 — with no previous involvement with pony racing — to come and have a taste of what was involved.

The day’s activities included riding the racing simulators with former Flat jockey Michael Tebbuttfall and fall training with Champion Hurdle-winning jockey Steve Smith Eccles.

The children also saw a demonstration of tacking up for the races and had a tour of the classrooms, stables and gallops of the British Racing School.

“We were very pleased with the day and we are hoping to run a follow-on session where those with ponies can bring them for a training day,” said Buzz Day organiser Carol Casey.

The day was also a hit with the children, including eight-year-old Jack Wilmot, who said, “It was the best day of my life so far, I will never forget it”.

For more information visit www.brs.org.uk.

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A trainer’s sons have caused a stir in the pony racing world this season — winning both finals of the Charles Owen series.

James Bowen, 12, took the 138cm contest on Push The Button at York racecourse on 8 September. It was the duo’s 10th victory this season.

Shortly afterwards, his 16-year-old brother Sean completed the Bowen double winning the 148cm final with Cudlic Verona.

Their father is Welsh trainer Peter Bowen — whose Always Waining is the only horse to have won the Topham Chase (over the Grand National fences) three times.

“We are so proud,” said the boys’ mother Karen. “It was a day we’ll remember forever. We thought they could go close, but for both to win was incredible. They are very good friends, too, so were equally pleased for each other.”

Both boys are intent on becoming jockeys when they leave school.

“They study the jockeys and know how to read a race,” Karen added.

Clarissa Daly from the Pony Racing Authority added her congratulations.

“We’ve never had siblings in the finals before, let alone them both win,” she said, adding that the series is seeing a “steady growth”.

“We are up two racecourse fixtures — to 25 — this year and the standard of riding is becoming much higher,” she said.

“All eight of the children graduating from pony racing this season are applying for some form of riding licence, too. It’s very encouraging and we’d like to see more giving it a go.”

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (19 September 2013).

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Edward Gillespie, former managing director of Cheltenham racecourse, has been named the new chairman of the Pony Racing Authority.

Edward, who stepped down last year after 32 years at the Cheltenham helm, takes over from Charles Barnett.

Pony racing has been running in Britain since 2004 and in the past eight years the sport has grown rapidly.

“It is such an exciting time for Pony Racing with some great initiatives planned,” said Clarissa Daly, chief executive of the Pony Racing Authority.

“With Edward’s experience, passion and knowledge we really should be able to take the sport to the next level.

“Over 100 graduates from Pony Racing have already gone on to ride under Rules with many more working within the racing industry; we are aiming to provide many more.

“We are committed to increase the numbers from non-racing and non-horsey backgrounds and to make racing more accessible to children and young people from all walks of life. With Edward as our new chairman we are better placed than ever to achieve this.”

Edward added: “Pony Racing in Britain is a massive success story. I feel greatly honoured to be asked to chair the PRA and shall do all I can to help the board, executive and the extensive support group build on that success.”

For more information visit: www.ponyracingauthority.co.uk

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Megan Nicholls, daughter of champion National Hunt trainer Paul, has been crowned 2012 pony racing champion in the 148cm series, held at Newmarket racecourse this weekend (Saturday 6 October).

Lorcan Williams on Stretcholt Hermes won the 138cm series.

Twelve budding young jockeys qualifed for each of the finals, through the 2012 Charles Owen Pony Racing series that has been running since April.

Megan and her pony Wotarisk were unbeaten this season.

Second in the 148cm final was Sean Bowen and Cudlic Verona, third Charlotte Greenaway and Miss Wonderful.

In the 138cm final Jamie Perrett on Dillan’s Girl was a close second and third was Charlie Todd on Little Anne.

“The finals at Newmarket were a fitting end to a tremendous series,” said Rebecca Davies of the Pony Racing Authority.

“Lorcan and Megan were worthy winners, and the young riders are focusing on next season already! Point-to-point pony racing begins early in the New Year and we look forward to another exciting year ahead.”

For more information visit: www.ponyracingauthority.co.uk

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Budding jockeys will make a bid to be crowned 2012 pony racing champions tomorrow (Saturday 6 October) at Newmarket racecourse.

Twelve jockeys have qualified for each final – 138cm and under and 148cm and under – since the start of this year’s series in April.

“The 2012 Charles Owen pony racing finals are the culmination of the best part of a year’s hard work for many riders,” said the Pony Racing Authority’s Rebecca Davies .

“Newmarket are kindly hosting the finals for the first time, and I know the two races will be hotly contested.”

Among the jockeys racing is last year’s 138cm champion Charlotte Greenway, who will be going for the double. And battling it out for the 148cm title will be National Hunt trainer Paul Nicholls’ daughter Megan and flat trainer James Fanshawe’s son Tom.

Newmarket’s Michael Prosser said: “”We are delighted to be staging the finals as we’ve always been staunch advocates of the Pony Racing Authrotiy and of the series.

“This Saturday sees us hosting a high-class racing programme and so the accompanying pony racing finals provide a great opportunity for the young riders to perform on a big stage.”

Pony racing was formally introduced in Britain in 2004 to encourage more young people to consider a career as a jockey.

For more information visit www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk and www.ponyracingauthority.co.uk

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The father of a jockey whose racing pony proved almost 5cm taller than its height certificate has accused the Joint Measurement Board (JMB) of being “unfit for purpose“.

In January, John Whyte paid £4,000 for nine-year-old Little Pea, who helped take Ned Curtis to the 2011 Charles Owen 148cm championship title.

However, at Marks Tey on 25 March there was a complaint. When remeasured, the mare recorded 152.7cm – too tall for pony racing.

Now Mr Whyte, of Beccles, Suffolk, intends to sue the JMB for professional misconduct.

“There needs to be more regulation of the full height certificate, we need to be able to trust it,” he told H&H.

Little Pea was twice measured at 148cm – for an annual measurement in 2010 and a full certificate in 2011.

But Mr Whyte says he can prove the thoroughbred was not that height.

“We recently took a sarcoid off her so she was heavily sedated, and even then the lowest she measured was 151cm, yet two vets claim to have measured her at 148cm.”

Howard Robinson of the JMB sympathised with Mr Whyte, but said full measurement certificates can be challenged.

“We are always concerned about inaccuracy – whether that is due to the animal growing, insufficient preparation by the owner or skulduggery,” he added.

Mr Whyte has asked the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) to follow the French model and allow ponies of up to 152cm to race. No one at the PRA was available to comment.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (28 June 2012)

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Want to pony race but don’t own a pony?

Pony racing is a fast developing sport that is aimed at eight to 15 year olds.

The sport helps improve young riders “jockey” skills and gives them a chance to ride in races at racecourses and point to points.

Now the British Racing School in Newmarket has set up a scheme to enable children who don’t have a racing pony the chance to take part.

The new BRS Pony Racing Academy starts at the end of June. Three children will attend each Saturday for 12 weeks to learn about the sport and how to ride in races.

They will do this using three new Pony Racing Academy ponies, racehorse simulators and video reviews.

Gemma Waterhouse, of BRS said: “We are really excited about the Pony Racing Academy and this will allow us to open up pony racing to more young people. We hope that towards the end of the 12 weeks we will be able to find a race for them to actually take part in!”

The three ponies have been loaned to the BRS, who are still looking for a fourth. All three are 14.2hh, two have been lightly pony raced and the third is an all-rounder.

If you are interested in applying for a place on the academy you need to be between 11 and 15 years old, be able to walk, trot and canter unaided and be physically fit.

If you are eligible and wish to apply please email gemma.waterhouse@brs.org.uk for an application form.

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Former pony racers can compete exclusively against each other in a new race next month.

The first race restricted to jockeys who have graduated from pony racing will be held to showcase talented riders.

The Pony Racing Authority’s (PRA) graduates handicap hurdle will be held on Wednesday 18 April at Cheltenham racecourse.

The race is restricted to riders that have graduated from PRA pony racing who hold a category A, category B or conditional jockeys’ licence.

Jockeys must have also completed 10 starts in point-to-points and under Rules.

“Over 100 riders have already graduated from PRA pony racing and now hold a licence,” said the PRA’s Rebecca Morgan.

“This race is an opportunity to show the next batch of talented riders coming though.”

Champion trainer Paul Nicholls, whose daughter Megan pony races, said: “This new race is a great idea, and I hope to support it with a couple of runners.

“I cannot speak highly enough of pony racing and how much it has brought on young riders.”

Pony racing was formally introduced in Britain in 2004 to encourage young people to consider a career as a jockey.

Graduates of pony racing include Sam and Willy Twiston-Davies, Lucy Alexander and Gina Andrews.

For more information on pony racing visit www.pra.gb.com

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Young jockeys will battle it out on the racecourse this weekend at the finals on the 2011 Charles Owen Pony Racing series.

Twenty-four riders aged between 11 and 15 – including Champion trainer Paul Nicholls’s daughter Megan – have qualified for the finals, which will take place on the hallowed turf of Aintree racecourse on Saturday (22 October).

Pony racing is a rapidly growing sport – 92 graduates from the initiative now hold a jockey’s licence. And over 200 pony races took place in 2011 at point-to-points, racecourses and Pony Club racedays.

The two finals (138cm and under and 148cm and under) will take place before racing starts on over distances of 6f and 9f – at 1.35pm and 1.55pm.

Sam Twiston-Davies, pony racer-turned-professional jockey, says: “My brother Willy and I learnt so much from pony racing – from how fit you need to be to race-riding skills and tactics and general racing etiquette.”

Rebecca Morgan, chief executive of the Pony Racing Authority, added: “This season has been the most competitive and successful yet. We are really seeing the rewards of the initiative now, with nearly 100 jockeys having graduated through pony racing.”

For more information visit: www.pra.gb.com

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Young jockeys took centre stage at Cheltenham racecourse on Saturday (16 October) for the finals of the 2010 Charles Owen Pony Racings series.

The pony racing was held before the second day of the Gloucestershire track’s opening meeting, the Showcase, began.

Connor Flint, cousin of pony racing champion and now jockey Rhys Flint, won the 138cm-and-under race for the second consecutive year aboard Stambrook Marquesa.

Rachel Leyshon, recipient of last year’s Rose Bengal Scholarship, awarded to a rider who has shown commitment and improvement throughout the series, won the 148cm race with Total Eclipse.

New this year was the Jan Wilson Memorial Award, in memory of the young apprentice jockey killed in the Malton fire in Yorkshire in September 2009.

The award gives one pony racer aged 14 or 15 who has accumulated the most points the chance to develop their career, with prizes including a saddle, boots, breeches and media training. This went to Thomas Greenwood.

The Rose Bengal leading rider and scholarship is named after pony Rose Bengal who had three successful seasons racing from 2006-2008 before she was put down after an accident in the field.

The leading rider awards were presented to George Crate and Rachel Leyshon for accumulating the most points throughout the series in the 138cm and 148cm respectively.

The scholarship awards were given to Stan Sheppard in the 138cm and Joe Ponting in the 148cm category.

The Charles Owen sponsorship award was given to Becky Brisbourne.

Also new this year, the leading Scottish rider award went to Tom Hamilton.

For more information visit www.pra.gb.com

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An award to help young riders and to celebrate the life of jockey Jan Wilson was launched last week to coincide with what would have been her 20th birthday (1 May).

The young jockey was killed with fellow amateur rider Jamie Kyne in a fire last September in Malton, North Yorkshire.

The award was launched last week by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA).

“The PRA Board is proud and honoured to introduce the Jan Wilson Memorial Award, at a particularly poignant time for Jan’s family and friends,” said Rebecca Morgan, chief executive of the PRA.

“Her untimely death was a tragedy felt by all in racing and I hope pony racing can do her memory proud in offering this new award in her name.”

“I have worked closely with Jan’s mother Margaret Wilson, who has acted with dignity and determination, to create a fitting and meaningful award for Jan.”

The points based award is for riders participating in Northern and Scottish fixtures of the 2010 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series. It aims to encourage young riders to compete more often on the Northern circuit, which is where Jan enjoyed her career, and will help prepare them for a career in racing.

The rider accumulating the most points and winning the inaugural Jan Wilson Memorial Award will receive a perpetual trophy and personalised racing breeches, boots and saddle supplied by Gibsons Saddlers and P H Kingsley Ltd.

Media training will also be offered together with a placement at a trainer’s yard of choice and tuition at the Northern Racing College.

Margaret Wilson added: “Jan loved racing and I am delighted to offer our support to young riders like Jan starting out on their careers. If you want good jockeys we have to help them on the road. It was important to me that the award is something Jan would have wanted to win herself and I am sure she will be watching down on these young riders following their dream like Jan did.”

A court case in which Peter Brown, of School Croft, Brotherton, North Yorkshire, denies two charges of murder, two charges of manslaughter and one of arson with intent to endanger life, is ongoing.

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Three aspiring young jockeys will experience life in a top racing yard as a reward for their commitment to the 2009 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series.

The Pony Racing Authority (PRA) has recently secured placements with top trainers Sir Mark Prescott, Michael Bell and Philip Hobbs for teenagers George Crate, Alex French and Rachel Leyson.

The placements are part of the Rose Bengal leading rider and scholarship awards, which were run for the first time last year. They are currently being organised for the Easter holidays and will last a week.

George Crate and Alex French won the leading rider awards for accumulating the most points in the 2009 series, in 138cm and 148cm pony races respectively.

The scholarship is awarded to a rider in each series who showed commitment and improvement.

Jessica Benfield won the 138cm and Rachel Leyshon the 148cm. Unfortunately, Jessica has broken her knee cap so is unable to take up a placement with Nigel Twiston-Davies.

George Crate, 13, will be going to Sir Mark’s Newmarket yard.

His father Peter told H&H: “George is delighted. It’s absolutely brilliant. He’s still quite young, but he wants to be a jockey and we’re very proud of him.”

Alex French will go to H&H columnist Michael Bell in Newmarket and Rachel Leyshon to Philip Hobbs in Somerset.

“I’m looking forward to learning some good tips,” she said.

Mr Hobbs, who employs former pony racing champion Rhys Flint, added: “Pony racing works very well — it is much more professional and helps them progress in the industry.”

PRA chief executive Rebecca Morgan said: “For riders to gain experience at yards of such stature is a great opportunity.”

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (18 February, ’10)

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The Pony Club is holding its popular pony racing instruction day at Aintree Racecourse on Tuesday (16 February).

Members, parents, officials and instructors attending the day will be able to get advice on topics like feeding, fitness, etiquette and race day procedure.

There will also be practical afternoon sessions, with tuition from The British Racing School and Northern Racing College.

And more than 125 Pony Club members have signed up to attend.

This year the day will be sponsored by Champion Headwear Ltd, the new Pony Club Pony Racing title sponsor.

John Ayres, chairman of Champion Headwear Ltd, said: “We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to become involved in The Pony Club Pony Racing. We feel that this is a Pony Club discipline that will become even more successful over the coming years.”

The instruction day marks the launch of the 2010 Pony Club Race Day season, following on from a successful 2009 season, held across eight venues with more than 250 Members and ponies attending.

Pony Club race days for 2010 are already planned for Cheltenham, Wincanton, Lingfield and Towcester and Racecourses.

The Pony Club introduced Pony Racing as a pilot scheme in 2004 and in 2006 it became an official Pony Club discipline.

Pony Club Race Days are the grass roots of Pony Racing and aim to welcome children and ponies of all abilities, before they progress on to point-to-points and the racecourse series where the races are more competitive.

For further details about Pony Club race days, the Pony Racing instruction day or Pony Club tests, activities and membership, go to www.pcuk.org or contact 02476 698300

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Aspiring young jockeys will be heading to Cheltenham racecourse next weekend for the finals of the 2009 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series.

The races will be held on Saturday, 17 October, the second day of Cheltenham’s showcase meeting.

The top 15 ponies in the country have qualifed for the 138cm and under and 148cm and under races which take place at 12.45pm and 1.15pm respectively.

Rebecca Morgan, chief executive of The Pony Racing Authority told H&H: “We’re really excited about staging the 2009 Charles Owen Pony Racing Finals at Cheltenham for the first time. It will be wonderful to welcome the top 15 riders and ponies here for each race, and for them to enjoy the experience of riding at Cheltenham.”

The Rose Bengal leading rider and scholarship awards will also be presented that day.

The awards are named after racing pony Rose Bengal who had three successful seasons from 2006-08 before she was put down after an accident in the field.

She won many pony races with Philip Prince and was second in two finals of the Charles Owen Series in the past.

The scholarship will be awarded to one rider from both the 138cm and 148cm series who has shown commitment and improvement throughout the series.

And the leading rider award will go to the rider in each who has accumulated the most points throughout the series.

Both award winners will win 12 months’ membership to the Amateur Jockeys Association, training with the British Racing School, a racing saddle and a placement at a trainer’s yard.

Top placed ponies are:

138cm: Jazz (Amy Milburn)

Angelic (Megan Nicholls)

She’s Wicked (Jessica Benfield)

Oscar (Robert Williams)

Little Chick (George Crate)

148cm: Total Eclipse (Rachel Leyshon)

Wotarisk (Harry Derham)

The Sprout (Lucy Gould)

The Bossy Hobbit (Alex French)

Darby O’Gill (Rollo Deutsch)

The Charles Owen Pony Racing Series is for young riders aged 11-15. Successful graduates from the series include conditional jockeys Felix de Giles, Hadden Frost and Rhys Flint.

For more information visit: www.pra.gb.com

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Young jockeys can win made-to-measure racing gear, a place at the British Racing School’s pony racing camp and other top prizes in two new awards schemes launched by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA).

The Rose Bengal scholarship and the Rose Bengal leading rider awards will reward four riders at the end of the 2009 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series.

The awards are named after Rose Bengal ridden by Philip Prince, one of the most successful racing ponies since the PRA was formed in 2004.

The awards will be presented at Cheltenham’s opening meeting on 16 October.

For more information, go to www.pra.gb.com

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (23 July, ’09)

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Young jockeys can win made-to-measure racing gear, a place at the British Racing School’s pony racing camp and other top prizes in two new awards schemes launched by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA).

The Rose Bengal scholarship and the Rose Bengal leading rider awards will reward, encourage and further develop four riders at the end of the 2009 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series.

The awards are named after Rose Bengal ridden by Philip Prince, one of the most successful racing ponies since the PRA was formed in 2004.

They will be based on a points system with riders awarded points, on a sliding scale, for their winning and placed rides throughout the current Series.

The riders who accumulate the most points in the 138cm and under and 148cm and under races will each receive a prize that includes made to measure racing boots and breeches, two days private tuition at the British Racing School and a perpetual trophy.

And scholarships will be awarded to one rider from each race category who has consistently shown hard work, commitment, dedication and improvement throughout the 2009 season.

Nominations will be made after each fixture by the PRA steward and the PRA board will decide the eventual winners.

Prizes include measure racing gear and a week long attendance at the British Racing School’s Pony Racing camp.

The awards will be presented at Cheltenham’s opening meeting 16 October.

Rebecca Morgan, chief executive of the PRA, said; “We are delighted to launch these two new awards to reward and encourage future jockeys, and to play a further role in their continued involvement and development in the sport of horseracing.

“Both awards are generously supported by the Prince family and I would like to thank them for their generosity in helping us establish both awards.”

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THE 2009 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series started this month, with the first fixture at Towcester racecourse last Sunday, 12 April.

There will be over 100 fixtures at point-to-points and racecourses in 2009.

Points will be accumulated at races, with the top 15 jockeys and horses qualifying to compete at the finals at Cheltenham racecourse on Saturday, 17 October.

The rapidly growing sport is aimed at 11- to 15-year-olds to encourage more youngsters into racing.

Recent pony racing graduates include Rhys Flint, Felix de Giles and Hadden Frost, who are all making a name for themselves in the sport.

➤ For more information, visit www.pra.gb.com

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Budding young jockeys can once more take to the turf as the 2009 pony racing series begins next month.

The 2009 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series kicks off at Towcester racecourse on Sunday 12 April.

Pony racing is a rapidly growing sport aimed at 11-15 years olds to encourage more youngsters into racing.

Recent pony racing graduates include Rhys Flint, Felix de Giles and Hadden Frost who are all rapidly making a name for themselves in the sport.

Thirteen-time champion jockey A P McCoy said: “There are already some seriously talented jockeys in the weighing room who progressed from pony racing — not least Rhys Flint who is showing a few of us ‘oldies’ how to ride winners!

“The improvement in young jockeys starting out is obvious and pony racing is now a proper grounding for aspiring jockeys in this country.”

Rebecca Morgan, chief executive of the Pony Racing Authority, added: “We are already seeing the results of pony racing. Felix de Giles, our inaugural champion in 2004, rode his first Festival winner last month and there is a great pool of talent that has emerged from pony racing into point-to-pointing.

“It is only a matter of time until many more progress and become professional jockeys. The competence and skill of English riders when they are 16 and able to ride professionally is now far greater than it was before pony racing was introduced and we are now seeing some really talented individuals come through the ranks.”

Races will be run 23 racecoursesacross the country between April and October. And there are over 100 fixtures at point-to-points and racecourses in 2009.

Points will be accumulated at races with the top 15 jockeys and horses qualifiying to compete at the finals — which will take place at Cheltenham racecourse for the first time on Saturday, 17 October.

For more information visit www.pra.gb.com

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Irish pony racing on Ballyloughane beach, Co Galway, is under threat after the local council branded it “cruel”.

Locals have reported that the ponies are being flogged and forced to gallop through the water with carts. The same offenders have blocked up stretches of the nearby dual carriageway and raced the ponies up the road.

Local councillor Terry O’Flaherty has received a large number of complaints from the public and has referred the matter to the police and Irish Society for the Prevention against Cruelty to Animals.

The Millstreet Garda (local police) are involved but their concerns are focused on illegal road closures rather than animal welfare.

Margaret O’Sullivan, public relations officer for the Galway Society for the Prevention against Cruelty to Animals, said that it was a matter for the Garda.

“People from the travelling community are racing their ponies up and down the roads,” she said. “Even on the beach, these ponies really aren’t fit to gallop. But we cannot stop them doing it — it’s up to the Garda.”

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A desire to regulate the growing sport of pony racing has led to the creation of a governing body for the discipline.

The Pony Racing Authority (PRA), chaired by Robert Waley-Cohen, was launched on 2 May. All recognised pony races in the UK will now be held under its jurisdiction.

The PRA board comprises representatives from the Masters of Foxhounds Association, the Racecourse Association and the Point-to-Point Secretaries’ Association. The Pony Club and Horseracing Regulatory Authority (HRA) are “observing” members, but do not sit on the board proper.

PRA secretary Rebecca Morgan said: “The sport has grown hugely in three years and we need to formalise for consistency, safety and integrity.”

Pony racing was started in the UK in 2004 to encourage young people into racing. Races take place at special Pony Club racedays and point-to-point meetings. Children placed in these races qualify for a pony racing series held at licensed racecourses throughout the summer.

All children now wishing to race must join the PRA at a cost of £20 per year, which will provide them with insurance. Miss Morgan said compulsory membership will enable the PRA to monitor exactly how many children take part.

The pony racing series has grown from 12 races in 2005 to 20 this year, with a 24% increase in the number of point-to-points staging pony races in the past year.

Champion jump jockey AP McCoy described the popularity of the sport as “phenomenal”.

The Pony Club is now the official training arm of the PRA. Pony Club pony racing spokesman Joey Newton said: “We’re delighted by the formation of the PRA. We do not sit on affiliated bodies but look forward to working with them.”

Miss Morgan said there were several key issues the PRA would be looking at in the upcoming months, including jump racing.

“It’s not something I envisage will happen at present, given the safety aspect,” she said. “But we are looking into it for the long term.”

Taking pony racing to a wider audience is another key aim.

“The whole point of pony racing is to get more children interested in racing and I’d love to get riding schools from inner-city and urban areas involved,” she said.

An HRA spokesman told H&H: “We applaud anything that gets more people into racing. Pony racing has developed organically, but the PRA is a welcome step.”

This news report was first published in Horse & Hound (17 May, ’07)

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While BBC1 focuses on the riders contesting the 160th renewal of the world’ s most famous horserace — the Grand National — on Saturday afternoon (14 April), two aspiring young jockeys will be given national airtime earlier in the day.

The duo, both members of the Vale of Aylesbury Pony Club branch, were shadowed by camera crews from the BBC’s Sportsround (the sister programme to children’s current affairs show Newsround) before a race at the Kimble point-to-point meeting last Saturday (7 April).

Albert Chandler, 11, and nine-year-old Francesca Quesnel took part in pre-race interviews, juggling stirrup leathers with media commitments in true Cheltenham Festival fashion.

“I was a bit nervous, but it was quite exciting too,” Albert told H&H.

The youngster, who is in his first year of pony racing, finished sixth in the Tower Hill Associates Open, which was his best placing to date. He also hunts the pony and attends Pony Club rallies on her.

The item was the idea of BBC reporter and rider Lizzie Greenwood-Hughes, who is based near Kimble.

“It seemed like a really good and realistic experience for young jockeys,” she told H&H.

In the end, the race was won by 12-year-old William Twiston-Davies aboard Sparky Boy.

The programme will be aired this Saturday (14 April) at 11.45am on BBC2, with the Grand National being broadcast live on BBC1 at 4.15pm.

For an in-depth analysis of this year’s Aintree field, see page 24 of the current issue of Horse & Hound (12 April, ’07)

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Pony clubbers flocked to Cheltenham racecourse for a unique chance to ride on the hallowed turf at the KBIS British Equestrian Pony Club Race Day on 3 April.

The first Pony Club member past the post was Ridgeway branch member Holly Ann Horton, 11, who rode Sweet Delight to victory in the KBIS Novice Stakes. Emily Pain, 14, of the Berkeley Hunt branch followed on by winning the Innsworth Technology Park Stakes on Piers.

Victory in the Cleeve Mount Intermediate Stakes went to 10-year-old Daisy Taylor and her pony Cwt-y-bettws Vocalist (Libby). Daisy and Libby were representing the West Norfolk Hunt branch.

The first male winner of the day was Harry Derham, 13, on G-Whizz in the Robert Hitchins Group Open Stakes. Robert is also a member of the Berkeley Hunt branch of the Pony Club. Daniel (Sprog) Garlick, 13, scored another win for the boys in the Brightwells Auction Stakes riding Cup A Tea for the Cotswold Vale Famers’ Hunt branch.

But the girls were back on winning form in the Queenwood Homes Novice Stakes, where 14-year-old Victoria Griffiths and Perry of the Dulverton West Hunt branch proved unbeatable.

Georgina Wales, 14, took the Blushes Hairdressing Intermediate Stakes to claim a second win for the West Norfolk Hunt Branch with her pony Smoking Gun.

The final race of the day, the Weatherbys Bank Open Stakes, went to Blackmore and Sparkford Vale Hunt branch member Phillip Prince, 14, riding Rose Bengal.

www.pcuk.org

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Future dressage stars spotted

Dressage’s stars of the future were recognised at the 2006 Talent Spotting Final at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre last weekend (21-22 October).

From a stunning line up of top class combinations, a panel of five international judges including Jennie Loriston-Clarke, Chris Porterfield and British Dressage’s Under-21/BYRDS Director Islay Auty chose Rupert Garnsey (young rider), Abbie Hughes (junior) and Bobby Allison (ponies) as winners.

Despite the competitive field, the three young riders stood out as being future world class riders. “Watching from the side, I was in no doubt which rider was going to win in each section,” Islay Auty commented afterwards.

Young rider winner, 18-year-old Rupert Garnsey, was second in the junior section two years ago and now trains full-time with David Rumsey. “I thought Rupert was a talented rider when I saw him in 2004 and was delighted to see him back. He is even more talented now as he has developed and matured,” said Auty.

Devon-based Abbie Hughes impressed Auty greatly: “Abbie shone in the ride off. She found harmony quickly with all the horses she rode.”

Auty described 14-year-old Bobby Allison’s riding as showing ability beyond her years. “Bobby has a good basic position and she is neat, not to mention articulate,” she said.

Grand Prix victory for Roe

Pony European team gold medallist Rebecca Roe took pole position in the Pony Grand Prix in Moorsele, Belguim on Sunday. Riding Arnoldo, Roe shaved 0.44 sec off her nearest rival Frank Schuttert from the Netherlands.

Pippa Allen and Spot the Lady, who charmed the crowds at the Horse of the Year Show, finished fifth. The pair also won the Dunglen 148cm Grand Prix at the BSJA/Scope Festival.

Allen’s European teammate and individual gold medal winner Daniel Neilson finished sixth with Micklow Madness.

Flint crowned pony king

Rhys Flint stormed home in the 148cm final of the Charles Owen Pony Racing Series at Aintree last weekend, winning on Tipsy Flint by a clear 19 lengths.

Rhys, 14, is a member of the Llangeinor branch of the Pony Club, and he and Tipsy Flint won this final for the second year running. The Llangeinor also produced the runner-up — Robbie Llewellyn, riding Sweet Wells.

Clifton-on-Teme branch member Jack Sherwood, 13, won the 138cm final on Irish Joker, beating Georgina Andrews (Clonross Star) by half a length.

For a full report on the talent spotting finals see tomorrow’s Horse & Hound (26 October, ’06) and for the pony racing finals see next week’s Young Rider pages in Horse & Hound (2 November, ’06).

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Pony racing will gain a new organising body next year, which will bring the three current strands — the Charles Owen Pony Racing Series on racecourses, point-to-point young rider races and Pony Club racedays — under one central umbrella.

The Pony Racing Authority (PRA) hopes to launch at this year’s finals at Aintree on 21 October with the aim of claiming ownership of pony racing, acting as its governing body and ensuring the sport’s integrity and safety.

One of the benefits will be that all children competing in races will be covered by a new insurance policy, enabling anyone to participate rather than just Pony Club members covered by Pony Club insurance. They will have to join the PRA and pay a nominal fee in order to race.

The move will also tighten the structure the racing season, beginning with “young rider” races at point-to-points. Those placed in these races or at a Pony Club training day will then be eligible for PRA-run races on racecourses. The winner of each of these will progress to a national final.

“Through this route, we hope to give children at all levels a chance to compete, whatever their background or experience. This has always been our long-term aim,” said Rebecca Morgan, secretary of the PRA.

The Pony Club will not to be an executive member of the PRA, but will remain actively involved with pony racing. It will concentrate on training for the races, holding a pony racing training day in each of its areas.

It is hoped that the Racecourse Association, Jockey Club, MFHA and/or Point-to-point Secretaries’ Association will be executive members of the PRA, for which a set of rules and guidelines are in the process of being drafted.

• This news report was first published on the Young Rider pages of Horse & Hound (14 September, ’06)

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Rhys Flint charged to victory at the first national finals of the 2005 Charles Owen Pony Racing series at Aintree Racecourse on Saturday.

Flint, a member of the Llangeinor Hunt Pony Club, rode Tipsy Flint (pictured right) to victory at the home of the world famous Grand National, finishing just ahead of West Warwickshire’s Oliver Murphy.

Hadden Frost from the South Devon Hunt West took third on Miss Brady. Hadden, 14, is the son of trainer Jimmy Frost, who rode his first winner when he was just 13.

All-girl team Annabelle Heath from the North Shropshire Hunt and Milly were winners of the 138cm race for 11 to 13 year olds. Another Llangeinor Hunt member, Thomas Watkins took second and Elliot Coxon and Fairley Amari finished in third place.

The 2005 Charles Owen Pony Racing Series, supported by the racing industry and The Pony Club, is a talent-spotting initiative aimed at promoting and encouraging 11 – 15 year olds to become jockeys.

Other finalists included George Saunders, a close relation of the late Dick Saunders, who won the Grand National in 1982 on Grittar, and sisters Bridget and Georgina Andrews from Luton, Bedfordshire.

Photograph by Kit Houghton

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The winner of last summer’s inaugural pony racing series has had his first ride under Rules.

Felix de Giles, 16, finished fourth on Father Jim, owned by his father, Jonathan, in a hunter chase at Cheltenham last week.

“Riding in pony races was a great help to Felix and enabled him to get his eye in,” said Jonathan, who also trained the horse. “Racing is Felix’s long-term objective.”

Since turning 16 in February, Felix, who hunts regularly, has won a point-

to-point for trainer John Manners.

Jonathan added: “Pony races also took the pressure off when he had his first ride in a point-to-point. They gave him a great opportunity to put into practice what he had already been learning about race riding.”

Felix, who is still at school, won last autumn’s pony racing final at Wincanton on Fitzwarren Field after qualifying by winning at Stratford in the summer.

Rebecca Morgan, Cheltenham’s commercial executive who helped establish pony racing last year, said: “We saw some very stylish jockeys in last autumn’s pony racing series. It’s encouraging to see that already riders are progressing, and may turn professional in due course. We’ll follow their careers with interest.”

This year’s series will run at 12 licensed racecourses, with a final at Aintree on 22 October.

This news report was first published in Horse & Hound (12 May, 05)

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The first dedicated pony racing meeting, with a six-race card for children only, took place last week. Organised by the South Dorset branch of the Pony Club at the local hunt’s point-to-point at Milborne St Andrew, the event attracted 45 entries from 26 branches.

Some children were racing for the first time; others are fast becoming “old hands” by taking advantage of this spring’s series of pony races at point-to-points and last summer’s inaugural races at licensed tracks.

Louly Thornycroft, Pony Club area representative for Wessex and the Channel Isles, who chaired the organising committee, said: “The sun shone, the course looked wonderful and there was a real atmosphere of enjoyment. There was a great buzz in the lorry park after the races from winners and losers alike.”

Jockeys had to be Pony Club members aged between 11-15, and they came from as far afield as Wales, Sussex and Cornwall. Family, hunting, show jumping, team chasing, working hunter, mounted games and polo ponies were among the mounts, which were divided into two height groups — 138cm and under and 148cm, with lightweight, novice and open divisions in each.

Though children are competing for fun, the “serious” objective of providing a training ground for youngsters is also being met.

South Devon West branch member Hadden Frost, 14, who won the lightweight 148cm and under Dorchester Car Radios Sweepstake, said: “If I can make the weight, I want to be a flat jockey, and doing these races gives me a two-year headstart. I’ve learnt such a lot already: I’ve got a lot stronger towards the finish, and I am pacing myself better.”

The other five race winners were: Charlotte Hayes, 12 (Taunton Vale Harriers branch); William Selfe, 13 (South Dorset Hunt); Ferne Jones, 13 (Neath Hunt); Hannah Clarke, 13 (South Dorset Hunt), and Paddye Grove, 12 (Vine).

Read this news report in full in the current issue of Horse & Hound (14 April, ’05)

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The first comprehensive series of flat races for ponies at point-to-points gets underway next weekend. The young rider pony races, of which there will be 40 fixtures, follow the successful inaugural racecourse-based series of last autumn, run by the racing industry and supported by the Pony Club.

To qualify, riders and their ponies must either have been hunting together at least four times or have attended three Pony Club rallies. Children aged nine, 10 and 11 on 1 January 2005 may compete in the 13.2hh and under races, while 12- to 15-year-olds are eligible for the 14.2hh and under races. Ponies must be between five and 20 years.

“There will be 10 max per race, so there might be balloting,” says Lucy Brack, secretary to the Point-to-Point Secretaries Association. “Preference will be given to children from the hunt that’s holding the point-to-point. If all goes well, we hope eventually to tie in with those that are run on licensed racecourses.”

Distances are four to seven furlongs. No weight limit is being imposed: whether a child is too big for a pony is up to each organiser.

The first fixture (26 February), at the Chiddingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray point-to-point at Parham, West Sussex, has a full contingent for its older class and a few spaces in the younger class.

“Entrants include hunting children and local racing people’s children,” says Julie Lee, the fixture secretary. “We’re using the outside of our course, before the point-to-points, as it will be too dark later.”

Fixtures continue at point-to-points until early June. A racecourse-based summer series is in the pipeline, but rules and fixtures are still being finalised.

Rebecca Morgan, commercial executive at Cheltenham and clerk of the course at Wincanton, who, with Aintree managing director Charles Barnett, is masterminding the summer series, says: “We hope to run races at about 12 tracks from July with a final at Aintree in October. Entrants must be Pony Club members or have won or been placed the point-to-point series.

“Last year, a child could only compete once, but this year there won’t be a restriction. This will be useful for those who use it as a training ground.”

This news article was first published in Horse & Hound (17 February, ’05)

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The inaugural races in the new nationwide pony racing series got off to a flying start at Newton Abbot recently. And jockeys and race-goers were unanimous in their agreement that the initiative is essential for the future of British racing.

Richard Johnson, who presented the prizes with champion jockey AP McCoy, says: “It’s brilliant to give kids a chance to see what it’s like to ride in races. Hopefully, we’ll get more British jockeys involved in racing.”

Pat Masterson, managing director of Newton Abbott Races, says: “We want to encourage young riders: the number of jockeys is falling and it’s imperative that racecourses help. We were very happy to put the two races on as part of a seven-race series that culminates in the final at Wincanton in October.”

Pony Club members aged 11-15, from areas 14, 15 and 16 in the south-west, were eligible to take part in two races, both with weight restrictions. One was a four-furlong gallop for ponies 13.2hh and under; the other was six furlongs for ponies 14.2hh and under, all of which had to be genuine Pony Club ponies, approved by the respective district commissioners.

Entry was free for the eight-runner races and areas 14 and 16 both had to ballot. Jenny Radmore, 15, was on the reserve list but was called up on Thursday to take part on her 14.1hh Arab/Thoroughbred, Shaugh Lady.

“I normally do show jumping and dressage and we qualified for the Trailblazers finals, but I entered because I like going fast,” says Jenny.

Thomas Woolacott, 11, was on the smallest pony in the four-furlong race, Candy Copper, a 12.2hh Irish-bred mare. But it was Isobel Matthews, 13, on her all-rounder, Rupert, who led the way home having started as evens favourite.

Isobel benefited from three schooling sessions at Taunton Polo Club with amateur rider Dominic Alers-Hankey, who taught her how to start and sit.

“If he hadn’t done that, I think she would have fallen off,” says Isobel’s mother, Corinne.

Hadden Frost, son of Grand National winning jockey-turned-trainer Jimmy, was the stylish winner of the 14.2hh race, performing a flying dismount in front of an appreciative audience. He rode the seven-year-old Brixton Adonis, who was shown successfully in-hand as a yearling before competing in dressage and hunter trials, and was the odds-on favourite.

The riders were presented with their prizes in the winners’ enclosure before watching a video of the race. They were then given advice on how to improve their technique from British Racing School officials who had earlier walked the course with them and explained racing etiquette.

“It was very helpful,” says Hadden. “I’ve dreamt about this for weeks. Next time, I’ll try to keep a better racing contact so that I don’t drift as much down the home straight. It was very educational and to win is a dream.”

The races are the culmination of a 12-month review undertaken to look at the sustainability and viability of national hunt racing. The British Horseracing Board (BHB) jump-racing review identified a need to encourage more British youngsters to consider developing a career as a jump jockey and, in association with the Pony Club, developed the scheme.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (26 August 04)

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