New Horseracing Certificate championed by The Pony Club

Harry Bentley, who rides for Qatar Racing, a subsidiary of British Champions Series sponsor QIPCO Holding, and three-day event rider, Laura Collett.

Top event rider, Laura Collett, has teamed up with leading professional jockey, Harry Bentley, to launch the first-ever Horseracing Certificate for young riding fans.

The new initiative between The Pony Club and horseracing partners, QIPCO British Champions Series, will be awarded to successful participants on British Champions Day at Ascot on 19th October.

‘The Horseracing Certificate’, which is open to both Pony Club members and non-members, will involve participants in four interactive teaching sessions at Ascot Racecourse during the morning before the Flat Racing Finale gets underway.

The sessions aim to demystify the sport and involve young people in horseracing in a fun way, while also giving young riders the chance to witness horseracing at the highest level.

Laura Collett commented: “I’m delighted to be part of it, this is a brilliant opportunity for young equestrian fans to learn more about horseracing on the sport’s most important day and see some true champions.”

Harry Bentley said: “The Pony Club is where I learnt to ride so I was delighted to support this initiative.

"I also hope to be riding on Champions Day, having ridden there both last year and in 2011.

"You never know, I might even ride a winner which would be fantastic!”

It is hoped that the new Horseracing Certificate will build a stronger bond between racing and other equestrian disciplines, introducing a whole new generation of young riders to a sport in which Britain excels.

Judy Edwards, CEO of The Pony Club, commented: “Part of The Pony Club’s objectives are to encourage young people to ride and to learn to enjoy all kinds of sport connected to ponies and riding, and as part of this we have produced a number of riding stars of the future.

"In horseracing, we see a number of incredible athletes, both equine and human, so this new initiative makes complete sense. We’re thrilled to be working together.”

Rod Street, Chief Executive of British Champions Series, said: “We’re delighted to be working with The Pony Club and look forward to welcoming many of their members to Ascot on 19th October.

"As under 18s are admitted free to our finest day of the season, it’s a fantastic opportunity for young equestrian fans to sample our sport and learn more about what makes British Horseracing the best in the world.”

To register to take part in this initiative, just email getinvolved@britishchampionsseries.com

For further details regarding The Pony Club, CLICK HERE.