Fifteen-year-old Tahnee Dodgson from Naracoorte Pony Club in South Australia is preparing for the adventure of a lifetime, heading to the National Pony Racing Series Final at the Gold Coast Turf Club on June 7—travelling more than 2,000km to be there!
Tahnee and her pony Rosie, a 12.1hh, 9-year-old mare, came second in the Small Pony Category at the South Australian State Qualifier, proudly representing Pinecliff Racing. Rosie is a super versatile little mare who loves a good adventure—making her the perfect partner for the national stage.
Tahnee has been a member of Pony Club for three years and says what she loves most is:
“The group of people who all come together because we all love horses.”
While she doesn’t single out one person as her biggest influence, she draws inspiration from the success of others:
“I always love to see others succeed.”
The National Pony Racing Series, a joint initiative between Pony Club Australia and Thoroughbred Industry Careers, brings young riders together from across the country to develop skills, explore equine career pathways, and experience the excitement of racing on real tracks.
Tahnee says her favourite part of Pony Racing is the people and the energy:
“Everyone is so upbeat—great friends, gorgeous ponies!”
Getting to the final has been a real team effort. Tahnee expresses heartfelt thanks to those who’ve supported her journey, including Maggie Collett and Justin Pickering for letting her use Rosie, and generous sponsors like Racing SA, Naracoorte Pony Club, Murray Bridge Racing Club, her family and friends, and J&R Opperman, who have provided accommodation. Rosie’s transport was arranged at a fantastic rate thanks to Tasmanian Horse Transport and Champions Horse Transport.
So what is Tahnee most looking forward to?
“It’s such an adventure! We get to spend a week on the Gold Coast riding every day. I had such a great time at the SA race—so I’m very excited to be part of the national event.”
Best of luck to Tahnee and Rosie—we know they’ll do South Australia proud!
