Page 50 - The Hunt - Spring 2024
P. 50
RACE
TO THE
FUTURE
THE NEXT GENERATION IS RISING UP ON THE BACKS OF PONIES.
BY EILEEN SMITH DALLABRIDA PHOTOS BY JIM GRAHAM
The future of steeplechase racing in the United States has four legs and a tail, likes carrots, and measures less than 58 inches tall. These ponies are essential to the future of the sport, helping the jockeys of tomorrow get accustomed to competitive gallops. Pony races, junior horse racing and developing rider circuits nurture young jockeys with shorter races on smaller mounts, along with grownup supervision and mentorship.
Bareback racing dates to the Olympic Games in 700 B.C. But pony racing didn’t become official in the United Kingdom until 2007, when the Pony Racing Authority was formed for riders
continued on page 16
14 STEEPLECHASE LOOKBOOK 2024 | todaymediainc.com
