Ponying to the Gate

A Paint lead pony (any horse on the rack that isn't a racehorse is considered a "pony") accompanies a racehorse to the starting gate at Keeneland...
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A Paint lead pony (any horse on the rack that isn't a racehorse is considered a "pony") accompanies a racehorse to the starting gate at Keeneland Race Course (Lexington, Kentucky) Lead ponies on the track are unsung heroes. Their brave, steady attitude has a calming effect on young racehorses and they are often "friends" to the veteran runners. Speaking from experience, it's the outrider on his pony who will swoop in to save the day if you're on a runaway in the morning or there's a loose horse in the afternoon. All in all, they're pretty cool :)
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