Track or lead ponies play a vital role in the lives of racehorses. They provide support and comfort as the high-strung athletes navigate the bustling environment of the racetrack. But Why Do Race Horses Have Guide Horses? The answer lies in understanding the psychology and needs of these powerful animals.
Racehorses, like all horses, are herd animals. This inherent social nature makes them feel secure and calm in the presence of other horses. A track pony, often an older, more experienced horse, offers a steady and reassuring presence, allowing the racehorse to focus on its upcoming performance instead of becoming agitated by the sights, sounds, and energy of the racetrack. A calm horse is less likely to injure itself or its rider and conserve valuable energy before the race.
While track ponies come in various breeds, sizes, and ages, their temperament is the most important quality. They must remain calm and composed amidst large crowds and racetrack traffic. Some barns even utilize retired Thoroughbreds as lead ponies, leveraging their prior experience with the track atmosphere. Notably, millionaires Perfect Drift and Lava Man transitioned into successful second careers as lead ponies, guiding Kentucky Derby winners California Chrome and I’ll Have Another, respectively.
The term “lead pony” originates from “ponying,” which describes leading a horse while riding another. Outriders, licensed racetrack employees, own and partner with lead ponies. These outriders are crucial for maintaining safety and order on the track. Similar to jockeys, they wear helmets and safety vests for protection but use Western saddles for increased security. They lead racehorses using a strap looped through the bit, allowing for quick release when necessary.
Outriders and their ponies are active during both morning training sessions and afternoon races. In the mornings, they escort horses to and from workouts, sometimes even exercising a racehorse without a rider. During races, they guide racehorses from the paddock to the starting gate. Depending on the trainer’s instructions, the lead pony might accompany the racehorse through their warm-up before parting ways at the starting gate. After the race, an outrider and pony may reunite with the winner to guide them back to their connections. Working as a team, they strategically position themselves to provide coverage across the track, remaining vigilant for loose horses. A fast Thoroughbred pony is a definite advantage when catching a runaway!
At training centers, young horses are introduced to lead ponies early in their development. These ponies guide the horses during their work, whether in the field or on the training track. This early exposure teaches the young horses to relax and feel secure in the presence of a lead pony, a valuable lesson they carry with them to the racetrack.
Consider Stonestreet Training Center, where future racehorses learn the ropes. The lead ponies there shepherd each set of horses through their work, whether they are in the field or on the training track. Graduates from this program learn to relax in the presence of the lead pony and will take these lessons to the racetrack.
Stonestreet Training Center employs O’Reilly and Tony as lead ponies. O’Reilly is a twelve-year-old buckskin, while Tony is an eight-year-old palomino. Both are Quarter Horse geldings and have worked at the training center for several years. The geldings alternate workdays and enjoy Sundays relaxing in their paddock, soaking up the sunshine. Known for their calm demeanor, they often stand untied between sets or while overseeing gate work. Throughout their careers, they have guided over 200 stakes winners through their training.
Ultimately, lead ponies and their outrider partners are crucial for maintaining the safety of all racing participants. The calming influence of the lead pony reduces the risk of accidents and ensures that racehorses can perform at their best. The next time you visit the racetrack, remember the important role these unsung heroes play, and perhaps offer a pat or a peppermint to your local lead pony!
