What is mini trots
Harness racing, sized for kids.
Mini trots is the junior side of harness racing. Drivers aged 5 to 18 race ponies under 52 inches high in gigs, learning horsemanship and the art of driving along the way.
What our drivers learn
It starts with looking after a pony: feeding, grooming, harnessing up and getting them to the track. Then comes driving, steering, pacing a race, and racing fairly against your mates.
Races run on real harness tracks on real race nights, so young drivers get a taste of the big trots from the very start. Plenty of today's harness drivers started out in mini trots.
The ponies
Every pony is under 52 inches high. They race in three types.
Pony
The tallest of our racers and often the quickest. A great fit for older or more experienced drivers.
Shetland
Small, strong and full of character. Shetlands are a favourite with the crowd and with younger drivers.
Midget
The smallest racers on the track. Perfect for our youngest drivers getting started.
How a handicap race works
Every race is set so each pony should take about two minutes. Faster ponies start further back.
- 620 m front marker5.17 m/s
- 710 m5.92 m/s
- 800 m6.67 m/s
- 920 m back marker7.67 m/s
Safety first
Drivers wear helmets and safety gear every time they drive, and ponies are checked before they race. Races are run by experienced officials and helpers, with parents close by.
New to it all? The committee will walk you through exactly what gear is needed before your first drive.
Ready to give it a go?
Come along to a race night, meet the families, and have a chat with us about getting started.