Pony Racing comes to the Curragh For the first time ever a Pony Race will be held on an Irish Racecourse this Saturday when the Curragh hosts a 14.2HH Race. The event will showcase some of the latest young riding talent and will be followed by a second race in Gowran Park on Sunday September 22nd. Over the years the Irish Pony Racing circuit has produced a continuous stream of riders who have progressed to successful careers as jockeys. From Charlie Swan, Norman Williamson, Tommy Carmody and Adrian Maguire to the current crop of riders which include names such as Pat Smullen, Jamie Spencer, Richard Hughes, Paul Townend, Shane Foley, Chris Hayes, Gary Carroll, Wayne Lordan, Bryan Cooper and Ronan Whelan. The list of those who gained their initial racing experience in Pony Racing seems never-ending. Indeed this year's Apprentice sensation Connor King was Pony Racing up until October of last year. Riders due to take part at the Curragh are: Jody Townend, Jack Kennedy, Niamh Crehan, Mark Crehan, Luke Bleahan, Sean Corby, Rossa Ryan, Killian Leonard, Niamh O'Callaghan, Calvin Gavin, Jack Hogan and Evan Daly. Jack Kennedy is the Irish Field National Champion for 2012 and 2013 while other names to note are Jody Townend who is a sister of former NH Champion Jockey Paul and Luke Bleahan and Rossa Ryan who's fathers are both current trainers. Information courtesy of Denis Coakley.
