The Pathway into Racing, through Pony Racing

Led by the Pony Racing Authority (PRA) the Pathway into Racing, through Pony Racing  is a collaboration between the PRA, The Pony Club, Racing to School, Careers in Racing, The National Horseracing College, The Scottish Racing Academy & The British Racing School.

Now in its 6^th year, we have seen over 12,000 engagements throughout the Pathway, which supports industry objectives and our strategy in:

• Removing financial barriers to promote participation in pony racing and horseracing
• Unearthing new talent from partnered riding centres throughout the UK
• Promoting diversity & inclusion
• Providing riding and pony care training, experiences and support to build a skill set that prepares industry ready entrants to horseracing
• Providing qualified pony racing coaches
• Showcasing career opportunities within the horseracing industry
• Social Licence and Impact
• Highlighting that Pony Racing is a grassroots entry to horseracing.

With thanks to our funding Partners, The Racing Foundation & the HBLB, The Pathway into Racing through Pony Racing delivers:

Delivered by Racing to School

• Careers Insight Days at racecourses, in training yards & at stud yards
• Horse & Pony Racing Intro Sessions at Pony Club Branches & Centres

Racing to School – The charity inspiring young minds

Delivered by The Pony Club

• Pony Club Race Days

Pony Club

Delivered by the PRA (and supported by all collaborators within the Pathway into Racing, through Pony Racing)

• Taster Sessions at Pony Club Race Days 
  Which show what is required in pony racing
• Taster Sessions at Urban Riding Schools
  To introduce pony racing and the Pre Academy Scheme to inner city audiences
• PRA/PC Training & Qualification Days 
  Which are the best way for rider and pony combinations to qualify to pony race in both PRA & Pony Club Racedays
• Pony Racing Coach Training 
  Pony Racing specific CPD sessions for experienced coaches that qualifies them to coach  pony racing riders

 

• Opportunities for those who do not own their own pony:
  • Pre Academy Course
  • Academy Scheme (also supported by the NHC & BRS)
  • Graduates of Academies Programme (also supported by the BRS)
  • Pony Racing Pathway Scholarship

Those in the Pathway are also encouraged to attend Explore Racing Days delivered by Careers in Racing and Scottish Racing Academy’s Community Racedays.

Why is the Pathway into Racing through Pony Racing so important?

The Pathway promotes a passion for pony & horse racing for those who engage within the Pathway, along with their families and friends. It brings families to racecourses who, without the opportunities it creates, would never have thought to attend a raceday.  Children who engage with the Pathway report improved fitness, physical and mental health and in several cases also see improvements in educational settings.