Thoroughbred Industry Careers (TIC) and Pony Club Australia (PCA) are proud to launch the second season of the National Pony Racing Series, this time with a new initiative that gives young riders an even more accessible point into pony racing.
This season, the series will run across six states – New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia, and Queensland - culminating in the Finals, to be held on the Gold Coast in June 2025.
Pony Racing Australia Ambassador for her second season, Lizzie Jelfs said, “Racing has given me so much, from looking after racehorses’ hands-on, to my current role in broadcast media, I’m not sure how my life would have looked without this industry. I’m not from a racing background, I was just lucky enough to fall into it, so I believe creating pathways for young people is so important. The National Pony Racing Series is building a whole new community that is being educated on the opportunities available to them."
TIC and PCA have added to this year’s program “Jumpstart Weekends”, which are designed to engage and inspire the next generation of equestrian talent.
Open to all Pony Club members, regardless of age or the size of their pony or horse, the Jumpstart Weekends will help riders develop essential race-ready skills while providing an accessible entry point into pony racing. These events are perfect for riders who are new to the sport or those looking to sharpen their abilities with the support of experienced coaches.
Over two action-packed days, participants will build important skills such as balance, control, and riding techniques. The first day focuses on horse health and riding basics, while day two gives riders the chance to put their skills to the test in a fun gymkhana-style event at a local racetrack. Those who meet the selection criteria will advance to further training, which could lead to a spot in the state qualifying races.
With 12 qualifying races and 120 riders expected to compete, the series showcases emerging talent, with participants wearing racing colours sponsored by some of the biggest names in Australian racing; Arrowfield Stud, Chris Waller Racing, Ciaron Maher Racing, Frank and Christine Cook, Godolphin, Hermitage Thoroughbreds, Inglis, Lizzie Jelfs Racing Club, Magic Millions, Peachester Lodge, Pinecliff Racing, Ranvet, Ridgemont Farm, Seymour Bloodstock, Swettenham Stud, Thoroughbred Breeders Australia, Woppitt Bloodstock and Yulong Stud.
The Principal Racing Authorities in Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Queensland are also financially contributing to Season 2 of Pony Racing.
Pony Club Australia CEO Matt Helmers said the Jumpstart Weekends add another pillar to the already popular series, by allowing riders to further develop in a fun, supportive atmosphere.
“Pony Racing has been a long-standing sport in Ireland, the UK, and France, and its introduction to Australia has already provided a fantastic opportunity for our young riders to display their skills,” Helmers said.
“The National Pony Racing Series is a fresh and exciting opportunity in Australia’s equestrian scene.”
The state qualifying races are for members aged between 9 and 15 years old with the height of ponies capped at 14hh. For further information, click here for the Pony Racing Rules & Selection Guidelines.
