The Pathway into Racing through Pony Racing Project
About the Pathway
The Pathway into Racing through Pony Racing Project is a collaborative programme between the Pony Racing Authority, The Pony Club, the BHA’s Careers in Racing team, and Racing to School, offering a formal pathway into the horseracing industry for young people through pony racing.
Supported by the Racing Foundation and Horserace Betting Levy Board, the programme provides an inclusive opportunity for all young people to get involved no matter what their background, welcoming everyone from those who have never been involved in racing to those who are already competent riders.
Now in it’s sixth year, the pathway has seen over 12,000 engagements and promotes a passion for pony & horse racing.
Read the 2025 End of Year Impact Report HERE.
Our activities
Horse and Pony Racing Intro Sessions
Horse and Pony Racing Introductory Sessions are aimed at aspiring jockeys aged 7 to 15 and require nothing more from young people than a positive attitude and willingness to try out something new. As well as finding out more about the opportunities within Pony Racing, participants will also learn the all-important techniques and fitness for race-riding through fun non-ridden activities. The exercises will help them to develop their core strength and balance – both essential when riding a horse at speed across any discipline, or when playing other sports.
These sessions can also be run mounted if preferred.
If you would like to arrange a Horse and Pony Racing Introductory Session for your Pony Club group or riding centre, please contact the team using info@racingtoschool.co.uk for more information.
Thoroughbred Discovery Days
Would you like to find out more about the life of a racehorse and the people who care for them?
Our free Thoroughbred Discovery Days give young people the chance to go behind the scenes at a working training yard or stud farm and learn more about how racehorses are bred, trained and cared for, hearing first-hand from the people involved in their day-to-day care.
Places are limited, and all young people must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the visit. Keep an eye on this page for upcoming dates and details on how to book.
Careers Day at the Races
Are you interested in finding out more about the horseracing industry and the different career options it offers?
We are delighted to be able to offer young people (and accompanying parents) a unique and free day at a racecourse, training yard or stud farm, taking them behind the scenes to gain insight into the UK’s largest sporting employer.
Spaces for this opportunity are limited to 20 young people who must be accompanied throughout the visit by an adult.
Watch this space for new dates!
