News | 30 May 2024
RaceTech announced as sponsor of the Pony Racing Point Series
Exciting news as RaceTech are announced as the new sponsor for the Pony Club Pony Racing Points Series. While Pony Racing might be one of the Pony Club’s lesser-known sports, it’s a thrilling opportunity for members aged 9 to 17 craving the thrill and exhilaration of going fast. In 2023, a whopping 339 members from 106 different Branches and 14 different Centres nationwide got in on the action.
The Pony Club is committed to enhancing Pony Racing experiences by organising more race days in areas currently without existing race days. Currently boasting nine race days, the aim is to expand this annually. In 2024, races have stretched as far north as Kelso in Area 19 and as far south as Milborne St Andrew and Wincanton in Area 14.
How does the Points Series work?
Results from each race day are submitted to Pony Club HQ and entered into our database for point calculation across three categories: the 128cm, 138cm, and 148cm Points Series.
The points are then awarded as follows:
1st place = 12 points
2nd place = 10 points
3rd place = 8 points
4th place = 6 points
5th place = 4 points
6th place = 2 points
Completion = 1 point
DNF/DNS/W = 0 points
In combined races, points are distributed accordingly. For example, in a race featuring both 138cm Intermediate and Open categories, 12 points are awarded to the winner in each category.
Throughout the season, points accumulate based on placings. For instance, a member placing third at Wincanton (8 points), first at Ascot (12 points), and fourth at Cheltenham (6 points) would tally 26 points across three races! Previous winners have ended the season with 40 to 90 points.
What do the winners receive?
The top three finishers in each category, along with their families, receive invitations to Ascot in December for a thrilling day at the races and prize presentations courtesy of RaceTech.
What are the rules?
Participants must be active Pony Club members throughout the Points Series. Points are tallied for combinations rather than individual riders. All participating members must meet eligibility criteria as per current Pony Club Pony Racing rules.
How many Race Days do I need to take part in?
While more race days enhance opportunities, attending every event may not be feasible due to scheduling. Past recipients have attended as few as four race days, with some remarkable members joining up to eight out of nine outings!
Not ready to race yet?
Don’t worry! We’ve got something for every aspiring jockey. Before each Pony Club race day, join us for a Taster Day in the morning. Organised by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA), these sessions are designed to give you a taste of pony racing. Have a go on the Equicisor, take part in balance and fitness activities, learn about what tack and equipment in needed for Pony Racing, and embark on a tour of the Race Course. These days are free but spaces are limited so ensure you book via the PRA website to avoid disappointment. Then, once the Taster Session is complete, enjoy an afternoon of watching the Pony Racing and remember that many of the jockeys started right where you are now.
Don’t have your own pony?
Did you know, in 2023, 14 different Pony Club Centres had a total of 95 members taking part in Pony Racing! The PRA Academy scheme is the perfect opportunity for Centre members to get involved in Pony Racing. If you’re a Centre member and want to find out more, click the button below!