NZTR links with pony clubs to grow participation

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) and the New Zealand Pony Clubs Association (NZPCA) have signed a three-year partnership to promote careers in racing and breeding and support Thoroughbreds beyond their racing careers.

The agreement builds on existing collaboration and includes a new Thoroughbred Rider Scholarship, industry visits, practical experiences and access to career information and industry expertise.

NZTR general manager of welfare and industry capability Sam Fursdon said the partnership would help Pony Club members explore employment opportunities while developing the skills to retrain and care for former racehorses.

“Pony Club is where many young people develop their love of horses and the horsemanship skills that can underpin a future in our industry. We want to help them see where that passion could take them, whether that is working in racing or breeding, or riding and caring for a Thoroughbred beyond its racing career,” Fursdon said.

NZPCA chief executive Lizzie Turnbull said the agreement would connect members with knowledge and experience across the Thoroughbred sector while promoting the breed’s versatility across equestrian disciplines.

The organisations will establish annual activity plans covering career pathways, horse welfare, responsible ownership and retraining, with further details on applications for the Thoroughbred Rider Scholarship to be announced through their respective channels.