Trials Day - All You Need to Know

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We are now at the end of our 2024 Season, thank you to everyone for all your support throughout the year.

Our next Trials Day will be held in April 2025.  Please keep an eye out on our social media pages for the date which should be confirmed in January 2025.

For the criteria for joining us as a jockey, please refer to the 'How to Join' page on our website https://shetlandponygrandnational.co.uk/how-to-join

We look forward to seeing you in 2025

The SPGN Management Team

• On arrival, please leave your pony in your horsebox -DO NOT UNLOAD.

• You will need to register your jockey & pony with the Shetland Pony Grand National Management Team.  Please download, print, complete and bring the completed signed forms with you. Please ensure you complete ALL the forms (See Downloads below). 

• You will £—— cash/card for payment at the Trials Day.

• Jockeys are required to show their original passport or birth certificate at registration.  

• Please bring your pony's passport (it is a legal requirement to travel your pony with its passport) to show at registration

• Jockey's will be measured as they must measure under 5 foot.  If your jockey is deemed to be 'just under' 5 ft, the SPGN management may decide that they will not be included in the trials day as they are likely to have grown too tall by the time they come to race.  There will be further height checks at shows throughout the season. 

• Sweatshirts/t-shirts and caps will be available to order at the trials day - we will have some stock with us but we may not have all sizes available.  Please note that our leaders uniform which comprises of an SPGN branded sweatshirt, T-shirt and Cap is compulsory for anyone leading up this year..  Anyone without the correct uniform will not be allowed in the ring.  Please note that no spares will be carried by SPGN management.

• Jockeys will need jodphurs, riding boots, skull cap (no fixed peaked hats) and body protector. You will not be required to wear jockey silks at the trials day. No whips or spurs are allowed at any time when racing with SPGN including the Trials day.  You will be advised of jockey clothing that you will require for racing at the trials day

• Ponies will need a bridle, saddle, girth, safety (Peacock) stirrups, over girth.  You will be advised the full list of tack required for racing at the trials day 

• Young children/pushchairs will not be allowed in the collecting ring 

• No ponies are to be tied up to the outside of any trailer/horsebox

• Please ensure you bring hay for your ponies as it is a long day for them.

• The Cafe at Keysoe will be open for the trials day.

• Overnight stabling is available at Keysoe - please contact Keysoe directly to book.

• Please do not be afraid to ask questions at any point at the trials day.  There are lots of people who will be happy to help you and to answer any questions you may have.