Over 100 young riders have completed previous Ride to Time programmes and have learned the basics of riding trackwork by former top jockey's Noel Harris and David Walsh at racecourses around the country. Ride to Time is back and coming to a racecourse near you in 2024.
The programme is run by New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) and aims to teach Pony Club riders how to ride at a given pace over a given distance while understanding their horse’s natural pace. It also helps young riders to judge how fast they are travelling and what is a safe and balanced speed.
The skills riders learn during these events will not only give them a taste of what it takes to become a trackwork rider or jockey in the future but will also aid them in other disciplines, such as eventing and show jumping. The events will also give riders a better understanding of what goes into the nutrition and fitness of a jockey and racehorse.
Guidelines for participation are that riders hold a NZPCA C Certificate or are riding at the equivalent level of this.
More information on this years series will be coming soon, including event dates and locations. To stay in the loop, register your interest below and we will be in touch with details on how to register for these events when this information becomes available.