Ride To Time 2023 is fast approaching! A joint initiative between NZTR and New Zealand Pony Clubs, Ride To Time helps young riders gain a better understanding of their horse's natural pace, while also helping them judge how fast they are travelling and what is a safe and balanced speed.

In anticipation of this year's events, we caught up with Amy Johnston who took part in Ride To Time at Riccarton Park Racecourse in 2017. 

What was it that drew you to the racing industry? 

I have grown up in a family that has a great passion for racing and is on the racing scene. My Dad has been breeding thoroughbreds for as long as I can remember, and we would go to many race meetings together. My second-cousin trains in Sydney, Australia. I have always loved following his success and admire his work ethic and passion for the sport and his love of horses. I have been bought up riding horses and having many off the track thoroughbreds - they are such an intelligent and versatile breed. I was about to join a farming cadetship, until a position came up to work at Lance Robinson’s racing stables, which was perfect timing for me, as I had just finished calving. Since working for Lance I have not looked back. I am absolutely loving being more involved in the industry and meeting many new faces.

 What did you learn from attending a Ride To Time event? 

At Ride to Time 2017, I was lucky enough to have a go on the mechanical racehorse, where I was taught the correct jockey position and how to bridge my reins. We were also lucky to be accompanied by Sam Wynne - she shared with us her inspiring experiences and taught us fitness exercises to help keep strong and fit. As a partaker in Ride to Time, going into the industry further came naturally to me. As part of the event, we got to ride our horses around the track, so I knew what to expect going for my track work licence. 

What was your favourite part of the event? 

My favourite part of Ride to Time was getting to go around the track. I had grown up watching races at Riccarton Park, and always thought how amazing it would be to fly down the straight with the grandstands overlooking – 11-year-old Amy was imagining I was riding in the New Zealand Cup that day. 

11-year-old Amy (front) heads out onto the Riccarton Park track at Ride to Time.

You've recently got your slow-work licence (congrats!). Tell us about your journey to gain this. 

Thank you. I started off working at the stables as a part-time stablehand, but I really wanted to have a crack at riding track work. I found out we had to be assessed to get our licence. So, the perfectionist within me didn't want to fail this test. I took a racing saddle home each day to practice on my hack, so when I got to the track I didn't look too out of place. Fortunately, I have been lucky enough to have my hack graze at the stables so I could ride him as a non-registered horse around the track to fully prepare myself. I then upgraded onto a nominated racehorse to also practice on. I was given a handful of written assessments to fill out, which I did in no time as I was super keen to be out there doing it! On the day of my assessment, I passed with flying colours. I was nervous about some aspects of the fitness test but to my surprise it was way easier than I had thought. I now proudly work full time at the Boots N All Stables, it's a great team full of hardworking, enthusiastic, passionate people, and there is never a dull moment.

Amy riding Quest, a thoroughbred she produced to Junior Rider Show Jumping.

 What are your aspirations for the future? 

I'd absolutely love to head over to Sydney in a couple years to work for Chris Waller. I have my sights set on becoming a trainer myself, so I'd love to learn from the best.  It's such a different world in Australia, which will open my eyes to different training methods and making new connections. This will help me learn, grow and develop as a future trainer. 

Will you follow in Amy's footsteps? Spaces are limited – secure your spot for Ride To Time 2023!

Cambridge Jockey Club – Tuesday 11 April

Riccarton Park Racecourse – Wednesday 19 April

For more information, or to register, visit https://loveracing.nz/ridetotime.