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Become part of the action

Amateur driving has now been successfully running in New Zealand since 2002. Many hundreds of people have experienced the thrill of driving a harness horse aided by the support and encouragement of the local Amateur Driver organisation.

The reasons for getting involved vary as widely as the participants themselves. Invariably though it comes back to an avid interest in horses and particularly harness racing combined with a strong desire to experience the action first hand.

All levels of experience can be accommodated, so regardless of whether you have never touched a horse in your life or you are handling and driving them on a daily basis tuition can be tailored to meet your needs.

Many of our students have now gone on to obtain their amateur race day licence and are participating on a regular basis in amateur workouts and races. Each region can boast a hotly contested annual race series, which culminates in the successful drivers competing in the NZ championships. So if you fancy the chance of saluting the judge at either Addington or Alexandra Park, then this could be for you.

If that wasn't enough, opportunities to compete against teams of visiting overseas drivers happen on a regular basis. Several teams of local drivers have also enjoyed the thrill of travelling to the USA to drive. So there are plenty of opportunities for you to experience this thrilling sport at the level of your choice.

Upon making contact with the local Amateur Driver Association an assessment will be made based on your prior experience and in discussion with yourself a placement will be made with a local trainer. There you will receive one on one tuition on how to safely work around a horse, gearing up and then as your competency increases you will be introduced to driving initially with the aid of a dual sulky which allows an experienced driver to sit next to you and guide you through the basics of driving a harness horse.

Depending upon your commitment and the time that you are able to spend involved in your selected stable, more driving opportunities will be offered as your experience and competency improves. Eventually as your experience grows you will be able to begin the licencing process by gaining experience at the workouts and trials. The time involved in obtaining your race day licence will depend upon your prior experience, and the time you are able to commit to gaining experience.

Harness Racing is a fascinating sport that can provide a satisfying and absorbing hobby to the enthusiasts involved. So if this sounds like something that you would just love to do then we welcome hearing from you.

Visit the Contacts page for more information in your area.

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