Twelve-year-old Leilani Anderson from Stratford Pony Club in Pony Club Victoria’s East Gippsland Zone is heading to the National Pony Racing Series Final at the Gold Coast Turf Club on 7 June—travelling approximately 1,500km to get there!
Leilani will be representing Victoria after finishing second in the Small Pony State Qualifier at Moonee Valley, riding her energetic 12.3hh gelding, Cosmo, and proudly representing Race with Lizzie. At 11 years old, Cosmo lives for fast-paced disciplines like games and racing—and he clearly loves the track as much as Leilani does.
A Pony Club member since she was five, Leilani says her favourite part of Pony Club is:
“Making friends and trying different activities.”
She credits her introduction to racing to a very special early influence:
“My first instructor, Julie Cunningham. She introduced me to racing when I was little. She is a trainer and has taught me the ropes of racing.”
The National Pony Racing Series, a joint initiative between Pony Club Australia and Thoroughbred Industry Careers, offers young riders the chance to develop skills, explore equine career opportunities, and experience the thrill of real-track racing in a supportive, grassroots environment.
And for Leilani, that thrill is the best part:
“The thrill of racing down the track. So much fun!”
Leilani is making the long trip north to the Gold Coast with the help and support of her family, and she says she’s looking forward to everything the experience has to offer—
“Besides the big drive!”
We’re so excited to see Leilani and Cosmo take to the track—best of luck at the final!
