IRISH pony club members got to sample top-class racing at the Curragh last Sunday as part of a themed race day for branch members and their families. It proved a memorable experience for ten young riders who had the opportunity to display their riding skills on the famous finishing straight of flat racing’s headquarters.

This year marked the sixth instalment of a jockey skills course for pony club members which took place at RACE two weeks previously. The ten young riders selected from around the country were required to be at least 14 years of age and have completed a C Test. They participated in a two-day programme which involved riding racehorses on the gallops, video coaching, simulator training, fitness instruction and general yard duties.