Fifteen-year-old Isabella Swain from West Tamar Pony and Riding Club in Pony Club Tasmania’s Northern Zone is heading to the National Pony Racing Series Final at the Gold Coast Turf Club on June 7—travelling a huge 2,279km to get there!
Isabella and her pony Jenny proudly won the Small Pony Final at the Tasmanian State Qualifier, riding for Arrowfield Stud. She’s also pictured here with her much-loved eventer Moozie (Kingsfred Mosaic), an 18-year-old Australian Pony x Thoroughbred standing at 15.1hh. Moozie is her go-to for eventing, while Jenny—who isn’t so fond of dressage—has truly found her calling on the race track.
Isabella has been part of Pony Club since the age of eight and says her favourite thing about it is:
“The friendships I’ve made and the skills I’ve learnt—especially being able to compete with my friends at one day events, games competitions and jumping days. I also like the food at our awesome canteen! Pony Club brings parents and families together too.”
She credits her journey to the support of others:
“Ex-members who’ve helped and guided me, the amazing instructors who coach at camps, and elite Aussie riders—plus the younger riders now competing at Adelaide 3DE who were in Pony Club when I was just starting out.”
The National Pony Racing Series is a joint initiative between Pony Club Australia and Thoroughbred Industry Careers, created to give young riders the chance to develop skills, gain insight into career pathways, and experience the thrill of riding on professional tracks.
Isabella says her favourite part of the series has been:
“Learning all about the racing industry and Arrowfield Stud. I had always said Jenny was a race pony, and I finally got the chance to race her in front of my family and friends. She was looked after so well by the team—it was amazing.”
Making it to the final has taken a real team effort. Isabella worked during the holidays at Alva Stud in Hagley, and has received support from her parents, grandparents, and the wider community. Fundraising efforts included a jumping day organised by Jo and Isy Wynwood, a raffle supported by local businesses and Tasmanian organisations, and assistance from Tas Racing, Tasmanian Horse Transport, and Pony Club Tasmania.
So what is Isabella looking forward to most?
“Meeting the other finalists and hopefully making some lifelong friends. I’m excited to see what the organisers have planned for the week. The race is only 35 seconds—but just being there is exciting enough. I really hope the weather’s warmer than Tassie!”
We’re so proud to have Isabella representing Tasmania—best of luck at the Gold Coast Turf Club!
