Eleven-year-old Allarah Edwards from Northern Suburbs Pony Club in Queensland is getting ready to race at the National Pony Racing Series Final at the Gold Coast Turf Club on Saturday, after placing second in the Small Pony Category at the Queensland State Qualifier.
Allarah will be competing with her 12.2hh riding pony mare, Savanna, who’s 17 years old and still loving life in the fast lane. While showjumping is Savanna’s favourite discipline, she’s proven she’s just as game for galloping on the track.
Allarah has been a Pony Club member for four years, and says her favourite parts are:
“Showjumping and hanging out with my Pony Club friends.”
She credits her mum and sister Ebony as the biggest influences on her Pony Club journey so far.
The National Pony Racing Series, a joint initiative between Pony Club Australia and Thoroughbred Industry Careers, is all about building skills, creating connections, and giving young riders the chance to experience real-track racing in a fun, encouraging environment.
For Allarah, the thrill of the series is all in the experience:
“Wearing the silks and going fast. I also love how supportive everyone is.”
While her trip to the Gold Coast is just 96km, it’s still a team effort.
“My dad is driving me, my sister and my pony down to the Gold Coast. My grandma is driving up from NSW to stay with us so my mum and dad can work—and then they’ll come down to watch the race!”
And what is she most excited for?
“Competing against all the other riders and going fast on Savanna again!”
We’re cheering on Allarah and Savanna as they prepare to represent Queensland on home turf—go team!
