Seated Newspaper Horse Race

Bring the thrill of the races indoors with this creative and laughter-filled game! The Seated Newspaper Horse Race is a fantastic, inclusive activity that’s turning aged care residents into champion jockeys.

This unique game transforms a simple newspaper into a grand racetrack, offering light exercise, social connection, and a whole lot of fun. Dedicated aged care coordinators, this activity is perfect for transforming an ordinary day into a memorable, high-energy race day event!

Game Setup

This game requires minimal, easy-to-find materials and is perfect for residents of all mobility levels, as all participants remain safely seated.

You Will Need:

• Sturdy Chairs: One for each participant, positioned securely.
• Paper Racetracks: A long strip of newspaper (about 6–7 meters) for each participant. Tape the strips together end-to-end to create a long track. Lay it out in front of each seated player.
• Hobby Horses: A simple broomstick, pool noodle, or broom handle, decorated and labeled with a number or fun name for each participant to use as their “mount.”

How to Play: The Gallop to the Finish Line

Once everyone is seated behind their paper racetrack, the excitement begins!

1. Get Positioned: Each participant sits comfortably in a sturdy chair, holding their “hobby horse.” Their paper racetrack should be laid out in front of them, extending away from their feet.
2. On Your Mark, Get Set… Ensure all players are ready, hands on their horse, feet positioned on their track.
3. GO! On the coordinator’s “Go!”, everyone starts “galloping” to the finish line by running their feet quickly along the newspaper.
4. Pulling the Track: The quick, alternating foot movement should shuffle and pull the newspaper toward the player, creating the illusion of racing down the track—all while staying safely seated!
5. Declaring the Winner: The first racer who manages to pull the entire 6–7 meter length of their newspaper track beneath them (reaching the end of the track) is crowned the Seated Newspaper Horse Race Champion!

Jockey’s Tips for a Winning Race Day

To make your event an unforgettable success, remember to ramp up the atmosphere!

• Dress the Part: Encourage residents and staff to wear fancy race day hats, fascinators, or fun bow ties.
• Cheer Squad: Encourage spectators to cheer loudly for their favorite jockey! A little friendly competition and positive noise boosts the energy.
• Music: Play upbeat, exciting race-day music, fanfare, or popular jazz tunes to create an authentic racetrack feel.
• Hobby Horses: Use broom handles or pool noodles decorated as horses with fun names and numbers.
• Offer Prizes: Award small, novelty prizes such as “Best Jockey,” “Fastest Feet,” or even a fun “Most Spirited Racer” award.

Why This Activity is a Winner

This activity is great for laughter, light exercise, and social connection—perfect for residents of all mobility levels.

For an easier reference, check out this fun video showcasing the Seated Newspaper Race in action!