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Phuket hosts historic national pony jumping qualifier

Phuket hosts historic national pony jumping qualifier

EQUESTRIAN: Phuket is set to make equestrian history next weekend as “Jumping Phuket – Pony Q#3” arrives at the Niran Equestrian Center at Niran Farm in Thalang, marking the first time an official qualifier of this level has ever been held on the island.

Equestrian
By Ira Sipari

Saturday 14 March 2026 10:00 AM


 

Taking place from Mar 20-22, the event is officially recognised by the Thailand Equestrian Federation (TEF) and forms part of the 2026 Thailand Pony Jumping Championship Series one of the country’s premier competitive circuits for young riders and ponies.

For Phuket’s growing equestrian community, this is more than just another competition. It is a milestone moment. A national series now being held in Phuket.

The Thailand Pony Jumping Championship Series (THCH 2026) is a nationwide championship programme designed to develop young equestrian talent and create a pathway for competitive pony riders across Thailand. Throughout the season, riders compete in official qualifying rounds to collect points and gain experience in professionally organised events under federation standards.

Until now, qualifiers have traditionally been hosted in major mainland equestrian hubs. Bringing an official Pony Jumping Qualifier to Phuket signals the island’s rising profile within Thailand’s equestrian landscape.

“This is a proud moment,” Ira Sipari owner at Niran Equestrian Center explained. “Hosting an official qualifier shows that Phuket is ready to stand alongside the country’s top venues.”

What to expect

“Jumping Phuket – Pony Q#3” promises a dynamic and family-friendly weekend of sport, community, and horsemanship. The event will feature:

• Official Pony Jumping Qualifier classes for THCH 2026

• Classes tailored to different pony heights and rider age groups

• Open horse jumping classes

• A welcoming spectator atmosphere

• Food and beverages available at the onsite restaurant.

Young riders will tackle carefully built courses designed to test rhythm, balance, accuracy and partnership between pony and rider. For many, this competition represents an important step in building confidence, gaining competitive experience and progressing within the national championship series.

Parents and trainers also acknowledge the value of competing in a federation-recognised event without needing to travel off the island, a significant advantage for Phuket-based equestrian families.

Hosting an official TEF-recognised qualifier is a major achievement for Niran Equestrian Center at Niran Farm, a venue that has steadily grown into one of Phuket’s leading equestrian facilities.

Known for its professional coaching, structured training programmes and community-focused competitions, the centre has invested heavily in raising standards. The arrival of a national championship qualifier reflects that commitment.

Beyond competition, the venue offers a relaxed countryside setting, allowing spectators to enjoy the action in a welcoming and accessible environment, whether they are lifelong horse lovers or simply curious to experience something new.

Growing the sport in the south

The significance of this event extends beyond one weekend. By hosting a qualifier in Phuket, the Thailand Equestrian Federation is helping to expand the reach of pony jumping in Southern Thailand.

Opportunities like this inspire young riders, strengthen regional training standards and create new pathways into competitive sport. They also demonstrate that Phuket is not just a tourism destination, but an emerging centre for youth sport and equestrian excellence.

“Jumping Phuket – Pony Q#3” is open to spectators, making it a perfect weekend outing for families and sports enthusiasts alike. Visitors can watch talented young riders compete, enjoy food and refreshments on site and experience the excitement of show jumping up close.

From the rhythmic canter approach to the final clear round over the last fence, the atmosphere promises energy, sportsmanship, and celebration.

As Phuket prepares to host its first-ever official THCH 2026 Pony Jumping Qualifier, one thing is clear: this is not just another event, it is a defining moment for equestrian sport on the island.

Phuket is ready to jump.