And they’re off! The cast of Discovery Family Channel’s MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC has their eye firmly on the prize of the 2015 Belmont Stakes. With a playful challenge on Discovery Family’s robust social media platforms beginning Monday, June 1, the Mane 6—composed of Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity and Applejack—will join Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner, American Pharaoh, in its bid for the top spot at the 147th Annual Belmont Stakes to win the Triple Crown (held on Saturday, June 6). That same day, Discovery Family Channel will trot out a mare-athon of MY LITTLE PONY: FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC, beginning at 9 AM EDT (8 AM CDT), to catch viewers up on all of the magic and adventure featured in season 5 to date.

“American Pharaoh is certainly the horse to beat—but if there’s anyone who can mount a serious challenge, it’s the collective power of the Mane 6,” said Tom Cosgrove, general manager of Discovery Family Channel. “With the ponies’ smarts, agility and love for friendly competition, the final jewel in the Triple Crown will be one hotly contested prize.”

“Discovery Family Channel’s tagline is “Let’s Go!” – and we think that’s the perfect message to send to American Pharaoh,” said Rainbow Dash. “Fueled by our cutie marks—and, of course, my natural athleticism—we really can’t be beat.”

In the week leading up to Belmont Stakes, Discovery Family Channel’s Facebook page will feature the Mane Match, with the cast of MY LITTLE PONY going hoof-to-hoof in fan polls against some of the sport’s best contenders, in addition to humorous photo memes and digital Pony Trading Cards that outline the traits that make each pony a top contender. On Twitter, followers can enjoy @DiscFamilyDay’s Equine Exchange, with each of the ponies posting motivational tweets—and occasional banter with the competition—under the hashtag, #TeamMLP.

Discovery Family on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiscFamilyDaytime

Discovery Family on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiscFamilyDay

To find Discovery Family Channel in your area, please visit: http://www.discoveryfamilychannel.com/channel-finder/