PCASA Exhibition Pony Races: ALL riders MUST attend both Sunday, 1st March & 29th March to be eligible for Easter Monday As per criteria below.

Purpose:

To provide Pony Club riders with a safe, fun and educational introduction to riding at speed safely, build confidence and horsemanship skills, strengthen links between Pony Club SA and the thoroughbred racing industry, and showcase Pony Club participation at the Oakbank Easter Carnival.

Objectives:

Introduce riders to a racecourse environment in a supported, low-pressure setting.

Promote horse welfare, safety and good sportsmanship.

Create a clear development pathway for young riders interested in racing or equestrian careers.

Strengthen collaboration between Pony Club SA, race clubs and industry partners.

Provide a family-friendly exhibition event for the Oakbank Easter program.

To be eligible for Race Day you MUST attend both Stage 1 & Stage 2

Program Overview – How It Will Run:

Stage 1 – Taster Day/ Pony Club rally

Date: Sunday 1 March 2026

Venue: Onkaparinga Pony Club / Oakbank Racecourse

Outcome: Open to all Pony Club members, all ages and pony/horse size

Riders gain an insight to the Racing SA industry and learn about Thorough Care SA horse welfare initiatives, riders confidence in a race-style environment and register interest for Exhibition on Easter Monday.

Selection of riders to progress to the Practice Day for the exhibition and preparation for race-day conditions.

Stage 2 – Practice / dress rehearsal

Date: Sunday 29 March 2026

Venue: Oakbank Racecourse/Onkaparinga Pony Club Grounds

Outcome: Confirmation of the riders for the exhibition race and preparation for race-day conditions.

Selection for the number order of lanes or “barriers” and horse colours to be allocated for the pony riders. (so this way we can give the information to our race callers and any media prior to Easter Monday)

Stage 3 – Exhibition Pony Race

Date: Monday 6 April 2026 – Easter Monday

Venue: Oakbank Racecourse

Event Inclusions:

Pony Riding in lanes, for the two categories:
12.2hh and under & 14hh and under as part of the Pony Club SA exhibition

Rider age under 15 (as of 1st January 2026) and parent briefing

Stewarded starts

Free race day tickets for family members, and riders can have a backstage pass to jockeys rooms etc.

Presentation and recognition of participants

Photography / media (subject to approvals)

COST $10