The excitement is building as the 2025 National Pony Racing Series Finals prepare to take centre stage at the Gold Coast Turf Club on Saturday, 7 June, showcasing the nation's most promising young riders and their ponies.
Now in its second season, the National Pony Racing Series is a collaboration between Thoroughbred Industry Careers and Pony Club Australia, designed to introduce young equestrians to the thrill of racing and career opportunities within the thoroughbred industry. Following the success of last year's finals at Randwick on Gr1 All Aged Stakes Day, the series has grown in scope and recognition.
This year's series has travelled across six states – New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia, and Queensland – culminating in 12 qualifying races involving around 120 young riders, each proudly wearing racing silks sponsored by some of the biggest names in Australian racing.
Sponsors include:
Arrowfield Stud, Chris Waller Racing, Carl and Lorraine Holt, Ciaron Maher Racing, Frank and Christine Cook, Godolphin, Hermitage Thoroughbreds, Inglis, Lizzie Jelfs Racing Club, Magic Millions, Peachester Lodge, Pinecliff Racing, Ranvet, Ridgemont Farm, Seymour Bloodstock, Swettenham Stud, Thoroughbred Breeders Australia, Woppitt Bloodstock and Yulong Stud.
Principle Racing Authorities; Racing Victoria, Racing SA, Racing WA, Racing TAS and Racing Queensland have also supported the series.
Finalists aged 9 to 15 years old, all members of Pony Club Australia, have competed in two height categories:
· Ponies not exceeding 12.2 hands high
· Ponies over 12.2 and not exceeding 14 hands high
The ponies, riders, and their families have travelled from across the country to the Gold Coast for this prestigious event – a remarkable journey and a testament to their dedication and love for the sport.
More than a race, the series aims to educate and inspire the next generation of equestrian professionals by spotlighting the career pathways within the thoroughbred industry, while also placing a strong emphasis on horse health and welfare A special thank you to Magic Millions, a key supporter of this initiative, for their continued partnership and for hosting this year’s barrier draw and to the Gold Coast Turf Club for hosting the Finals.
