Pony Racing

Pony Racing creates educational experiences and racing opportunities for junior and amateur jockeys.
Jockeys must be under 16yrs of age to compete in pony racing and at least 10 years of age to ride stallions.

All ponies must be at least 5 years old.
There is no maximum age.

Do I need to wear silks?
No, you do not need to wear silks, but it is kinda fun!

I do not have a race pony, where can I find one?
About 98% of the ponies that run in races have other jobs!
SJC promotes the use of sane, controllable multi-use ponies.
Riders are encouraged to have a fun time, regardless of how fast or slow your pony can go.
It’s very rare that you find a pony that only races.

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For SIM purposes, Pony Racing ponies may also participate in In Hand classes.
Unlike flat racing, pony racers may have competed in other disciplines before switching over to Pony Racing.

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Divisions

Shetland Pony
Sheltands under 44"/11.0hh.
Sheltands over 11hh should enter Small Pony races.

Small Pony
up to 12.2hh

Medium Pony
over 12.2hh and under 13.2hh

Large Pony
over 13.2hh and cannot exceed 14.2hh

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Phases

Trot Race
Ponies many trot or walk. Ponies breaking to a canter must pull up and resume trotting. Excessive cantering may result in disqualification. This is a skills-type of race, encouraging young jockeys to learn how to control different types of movement within a gait.

Flat Race
Flat races are usually 2-4 furlongs, leaving from a starting line & crossing the main finish line on the track.

Steeplechase
Steeplechases are over-fences races. With a 8-12 fences over 2-4 furlongs, it is an exciting twist to finish off the day for our pony racers! Fences must be taken at a safe speed. Wreckless riding will result in disqualification.