By Michelle Newham, PCA Programs & Events Manager
Pony Racing continues to build momentum across Australia, with strong interest and participation at a state level.
In February, Pony Club Tasmania delivered a fantastic Pony Racing event in partnership with Tasmanian Racing. It was a great example of how Pony Club and industry can work together to create opportunities that are both exciting and educational for riders.
Following the event, it was pleasing to see riders step forward and showcase the skills they have developed through the program. They demonstrated confidence, control, and a clear understanding of positioning and horse welfare — a reflection of Pony Club values in action.
Congratulations to the Tasmanian riders who took part:
Matilda Cameron – Lilydale Pony Club
Ava Gilmartin – Lilydale Pony Club
Lauren Rattray – Mersey Valley Pony Club
Maci Brownrigg – Mersey Valley Pony Club
Kenzie Rattray – Mersey Valley Pony Club
Emily Horne – Tasmanian Pony Club
Lydia Motton – Tasmanian Pony Club
Emerald Rigby – Mersey Valley Pony Club
Velvet Carins – Lilydale Pony Club
Evelyn Burford – Tasmanian Pony Club
Next, South Australia will take to the track on Easter Monday at Oakbank Racecourse, in collaboration with Racing SA.
Riders representing South Australia include:
Jaycey Eatts – Strathalbyn Pony Club
Harry Downer – Onkaparinga Pony Club
Alexis Fix – Strathalbyn Pony Club
Clem O’Connell – Onkaparinga Pony Club
Lucy Rhodes – Onkaparinga Pony Club
Shiloh McKenzie – Strathalbyn Pony Club
Amy Trewartha – Mount Lofty Pony Club
Mya Dempsey – Mount Pleasant Pony Club
Bella Harrington – Strathalbyn Pony Club
Grace Separovich – Onkaparinga Pony Club
More Than Just a Race
Pony Racing is about more than race day. Riders complete structured preparation before stepping onto the track, including Jump Start programs, training days, and on-course practice, with assessment prior to competition.
Many riders also take part in fitness sessions and mechanical horse training, helping them develop balance, strength, and position in a controlled environment.
Through this process, riders build:
- Horse welfare knowledge and care
- Riding control, balance, and positioning.
- The ability to maintain rhythm and line
Responsibility, horsemanship, and sportsmanship
The focus is on developing well-rounded riders, with education, safety, and horse welfare at the centre of the program.
Pony Club has long been a starting point for many successful jockeys, and Pony Racing continues to provide a valuable introduction to the industry in a safe and supported way.
State-Led Growth with National Support
While there is no longer a national Pony Racing series, we are seeing strong growth at a state level, with Pony Club Tasmania leading the way in developing their own series in partnership with local racing bodies.
Pony Club Australia continues to support states and their racing authorities to deliver Pony Racing in a safe and consistent way, with national guidelines and resources available to assist.
Acknowledgements
Pony Club Australia thanks the Tasmanian and South Australian racing bodies, along with event sponsors and supporters, for their ongoing support of Pony Racing.
Get Involved
We would love to see more states get involved in Pony Racing.
If your state is interested in running events or would like support to get started, please reach out — we are here to help. Email members@ponyclubaustralia.com.au
