PRA Announces Simon Claisse as Chairman

The Pony Racing Authority (PRA) is delighted to announce Simon Claisse, previously Chairman of the Point-to-Point Authority and former Head of Racing for the Jockey Club South West Courses and Clerk of the Course at Cheltenham Racecourse, will take over as Chairman from 1st July 2022 from Edward Gillespie who has held the position since 2013. 

 Simon has been involved in pony racing since it was introduced to this country in 2004 both in his role at Cheltenham Racecourse and in a personal capacity.

 Commenting on the appointment, Edward said, “I am thrilled that Simon has agreed to take on this vital role within an area of the industry that is so important to the future of the sport.

 The knowledge and experience that Simon brings to this role will help take the PRA and pony racing to the next level.

 I have really enjoyed being involved with the PRA helping drive it forward to reach new communities.  So much has been achieved over the past decade, with the support of everyone across Racing. We have over 180 graduates riding either under Rules or in Point-to-Points with many of these coming from households with no equine or racing knowledge. All the very best to Simon, the Board and the Executive for developing the sport further. There is so much to look forward to”.


Simon commented: “I have been an advocate of pony racing since its inception, it was hugely satisfying to host pony racing and to stage the first PRA Graduates race at Cheltenham. Having been involved with a family member who competed at all levels, the sport clearly provides a huge amount of fun for its participants, but equally invaluable experience demonstrated by the competency levels of those aspiring to progress further within horseracing.  I am looking forward to working with the Executive and the Board at such an exciting time for pony racing.  I am particularly looking forward to helping with the delivery of the Pathway into Racing through Pony Racing. This will take pony racing to new audiences with the aim of making pony racing accessible to everyone.”

Read the full press release here.