Share on

    Galloping into the spirit of horse racing festivities, our Pool Noodle Horse Race for Seniors is a delightful and lighthearted activity perfect for celebrating iconic events like the Melbourne Cup, the Grand National, or the Kentucky Derby!

    Picture this: a sunny afternoon, seniors donning their finest hats and enjoying the thrill of the racecourse right in the comfort of their own space in aged care. With colorful pool noodles transformed into trusty steeds, the excitement is boundless.

    Embracing the infectious energy of horse racing traditions, our Pool Noodle Horse Race promises laughter, friendly competition, and a sense of community.

    So, saddle up and let the races begin! In this blog, we’ll guide you through the simple yet exhilarating journey of organizing your very own pool noodle horse race, ensuring everyone enjoys the thrill of the race day, regardless of the actual racetrack’s distance. Let the neighing and cheering commence!

    You will need

    ✿ a swimming noodle – the skinnier ones work best (one per horse)
    ✿ twine, rope or your choice of something for the bridle that you can tie tightly
    ✿ felt (9 x 12 sheets work well)
    ✿ large wiggly eyes
    ✿ low temp glue gun
    ✿ scissors
    ✿ Artline pen 

    Instructions

    1. 
    First, bend the noodle and tie the twine tightly around it. If you want you can weave a pipe cleaner around it to add some color after you’ve tied it on. I left a little bit of the twine hanging so that it looked line reins, but they are more for looks than for function of any kind.

    2. Next, turn the piece of felt long ways and cut a strip about an inch wide. Cut the ends of it into points for the ears. Cut the next strip (still looking at the felt long ways) at about 4 inches wide. Next I folded this wide stripe and cut waves around the edges to create the mane.

    3. Slide the long piece for the ears between the part of the noodle that is folded and pull them up firmly in place. Glue the ears up. Hot glue the mane and wiggly eyes in place.

    4. Now that your charming pool noodle horses are all set and ready to race, it’s time to transform your space into a thrilling racetrack. Imagine the excitement in the air as six vibrant lanes are marked out, each one promising adventure. The anticipation builds as six eager participants, each representing a numbered horse, prepare for the race of a lifetime.

    Have 6 people compete in each race numbered 1 to 6.

    5. Have someone roll a dice and when their number comes up they move forward one square at a time till the winner reaches the finish line, Happy racing!

    Extra tips: Consider adding colorful flags and streamers, replicating the grandeur of a real racetrack. Encourage your seniors to engage in the process, allowing their artistic talents to shine as they help deck out the venue.

    So, there you have it, the recipe for a delightful day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the thrill of the racetrack. Your pool noodle horse race isn’t just a game; it’s a celebration of life, of joy, and of the wonderful community that comes together to make every moment special. May your races be filled with cheer, your horses swift, and your laughter endless. Happy racing, everyone!

    Share on