Block · one region of the page, as the scanner read it. It may hold a whole story, part of one, several, or an advertisement; stitching blocks into articles is the next step. Text is supplied OCR.
Page 23 · column 2 of 4 · from the scan, no model involved
ment. Riders mount their ponies in the paddock prior to the post parade, just like adult riders on horses, and are required to ask “permission” to dismount and weigh-in following their run.
Riders who develop their skills early in the pony racing game are far ahead of their startup counterparts when asked to begin racing horses as an adult starting at age 16.
The Virginia circuit for pony racing begins with the Feb. 28 Rappahannock Hunt Pointto-Point in Sperryville, and continues at the March 22 Farmington Keswick races at Montpelier Station, the April 12 Loudoun Hunt Point-to-Point, the May 2 Virginia Gold Cup in The Plains and May 3 Bull Run Hunt Point-to-Point in Middleburg.
Two or three of the Virginia Steeplechase Association-sanctioned race meets this fall may also offer pony races of their programs.
Year-end awards are offered for small, medium and large divisions, sponsored by the Meadows Outdoor Foundation. Competition is typically tight throughout the year in all divisions, and many riders travel from Maryland and Pennsylvania to take part in Virginia pony races.
Those young riders interested in taking part in the pony race circuit can receive guidance from Jim Lawrence, a licensed trainer and father of former champion jockey Chuck Lawrence (who had his start on ponies.) Lawrence can provide advice on training regimes and riding techniques. Call him directly at (540) 364-2420.
— By Betsy Branscome
94.2%