Born to Race
U.S. Pony Racing gives young riders a fast, safe, skill-building showring alternative.
Not every equestrian dreams of showring ribbons. Some love speed. USPR builds confidence, horsemanship and athletic skill—and leaves no judge’s decision to interpret.
Founded in 2013 near Baltimore, MD, USPR gives children another way to enjoy horses. It has introduced hundreds of young riders to pony racing, emphasizing safety, sportsmanship and education.
Riders are eligible if under 16 on January 1 of the competition year. Ponies must measure under 14.4 hands and race in small, medium and large divisions. A USPR official screens every combination for suitability before entering the track.
Competitors must wear approved helmets, safety vests and safety stirrups; ponies must carry an overgirth and yoke or neck strap. USPR pioneered a lead-line walk/trot division for riders under 8 and offers a crowd-favorite Shetland division for sturdy, foundation-type ponies.
USPR brings longtime Mid-Atlantic point-to-point pony racing to larger audiences. In 2013, the Washington International Horse Show partnered with USPR for a Shetland Pony Steeplechase Exhibition. The series includes two Devon races and WIHS. Races ran at Pimlico, Laurel Park, Penn National and Timonium, with Parx Racing outside Philadelphia joining August 15.
The Field Master’s Chase blends steeplechasing and foxhunting. Riders follow a designated Field Master over timber fences no higher than 2 feet 6 inches, then race home at the Field Master’s signal. It teaches patience, pace, jumping technique and tactics in a controlled environment.
The pint-sized jockey colony trains racing’s future. Flat riders Charlie Marquez, Maddie Rowland, Brittany Scampton and Taylor Kingsley began in pony racing. Steeplechase jockeys Virginia Korrell, Maryland Hunt Cup winners Teddy Davies and Eric Poretz, Elizabeth Scully and former NSA champion Parker Hendriks developed timber skills in the Field Master’s Chase.
Some become jockeys; others, trainers, owners, horsemen or lifelong racing fans. For horse-crazy children—and fathers drawn to a clear finish line—pony racing offers an unforgettable way to enjoy ponies. Learn more on USPR’s Facebook page or at goponyracing.com.
Regina Welsh has trained steeplechase racehorses for nearly 30 years. As Executive Director of the North American Pt to Pt Association from 2002 through its 2012 closing, she laid the groundwork for her “life’s work” promoting jump and flat racing among young riders. Regina sails competitively and watches her young daughter discover foxhunting, racing and Pony Club.
