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For the first time in its history, Newcastle Jockey Club is set to host a New South Wales Pony Racing Qualifier as part of the national series.
To be held as part of the Coastline Pools & Spa’s Christmas Party Race Day on Saturday the 14th of December, Newcastle Racecourse will hold two out of the twelve qualifying races to be held across six states, with a final race culminating on the Gold Coast in June 2025.
The National Pony Racing Series is run in partnership between the Thoroughbred Industry Careers (TIC) and Pony Club Australia (PCA) and is open to all Pony Club Members. The two races will be run prior to the main racing on the day and commencing at 12pm.
Over 120 riders are expected to compete throughout the entire series, which showcases emerging talent, with participants wearing racing colours sponsored by some of the biggest names in Australian Racing including Chris Waller Racing, Arrowfield Stud, Lizzie Jelfs Racing Club and more.
Pony Racing Australia Ambassador for her second season, Lizzie Jelfs, expressed her enthusiasm in Newcastle Racecourse hosting the event for the first time.
“We are incredibly excited to see Pony Racing come to the Newcastle and the Hunter region thanks to Newcastle Racecourse hosting the NSW qualifier this year,” Ms. Jelfs said.
“The National Pony Racing Series creates pathways for young people, educating them on the future career opportunities racing can make available to them, whilst building whole new communities around them,”
“The qualifier in Newcastle is a great opportunity for both participants and locals of the region to learn more about the sport, racing and the athletic skills associated,” she said.
Pony racing helps young riders to build several skills including experiencing the excitement of riding on a racecourse; enhancement of balance, control, and confidence; connecting with like-minded riders and mentors; enjoyment and fun through the participation in games, activities and hands-on-learning
about horse health and pony racing; and connecting with people involved in the racing industry to open the doors to future potential careers.
Speaking on behalf of Newcastle Jockey Club, CEO Duane Dowell is encouraging locals to come along and support the event and get behind the Pony Racing Qualifier.
“Pony racing offers a fantastic opportunity for young riders to display their skills and for patrons to discover something new about racing they haven’t experienced before,” said Mr Dowell.
“I encourage locals to come along to experience all the excitement and energy of the Pony Racing Qualifier as it is quite historic for Newcastle Racecourse to be hosting the event.”
Those interested in attending watching Pony Racing at Newcastle Racecourse on Saturday 14 December can purchase tickets here.
