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Pony Racing Camp 2010 is a Big Hit Once Again!
For the third year running The British Racing School invited 12 young Pony Racing enthusiasts and their ponies to The BRS in Newmarket for an action packed week.
The camp, which is a 5 day fully residential course for those aged 11 to 15 years old, has been formulated to help improve the skills needed to compete in this rapidly growing equine discipline. Daily tuition on body position, balance and riding to win was videoed in order that quality review and feedback could be given. The young jockeys use the 1st class equipment used by all the jockeys that are trained at the British Racing School including the simulators and the 7 furlong gallop. Various educational tours took place during the week including a rare insight into Sir Mark Prescott's yard, one of the oldest and most beautiful yards in Newmarket.
The highlight for many was the mounted games that took part towards the end of the week. "Although the camp is intensive pony racing training, we do want the young jockeys to have fun and Thursday night is an opportunity for them to let their hair down." Gemma Dawson, Finance Director of The British Racing School and a member of the Pony Racing Authority Steering Group.
Long time pony racing supporter and 2005/06 Champion Conditional Jockey, William Kennedy, led Team 1 while Team 2 were joined by Derby Dash winning jockey Jack Mitchell.
Both jockeys fully immersed themselves into the spirit of things riding the ponies and even doing the sack race!
The following morning the special treat of having 2007 Champion Jockey Seb Sanders and multiple Group 1 winning jockey Tom Queally to ride out with them. "It is a real treat that William and Tom give up their time and help out with the Pony Racing, they do this entirely to give something back to the sport and except no fee. At the age of eleven, to be able to say that you have ridden upsides on the gallops with Seb or Tom is pretty special" Gemma Dawson
On the final day the parents were invited to come and watch the young jockeys in action. The day began with a Best Turned Out competition judged by Mr James Fanshawe. They then went up the straight gallop in pairs and the parents went upsides them patrol style in the mini bus. This is something many of the parents had never done before and was a great photo opportunity for action shots!
Before it was time to go a presentation was held where each young jockey was awarded with a certificate and then 4 of them issued with a prize:
Outstanding Contribution - Robert Hornby
(Sponsored by Tattersalls and Gibsons Saddlery)
Most Improved Rider - Jasmine Hagger
(Sponsored by Weatherbys)
Best Knowledge of Racing - Rowley Bowen-Jones
(Sponsored by Tweenhills Stud)
Best Turned Out - Jemima Upton
(Sponsored by Gibsons Saddlery)