(AFP) Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad came fifth when he took part in a chariot racing competition today.

Mahathir, 75, who is patron of the Malaysian Equine Council, is a regular horse rider.

The premier launched the Harness Driving Centre at the Selangor Turf Club, and then joined in the marathon section of the harness driving competition.

Harness driving involves steering a horse strapped to a cart by a rider seated in a cart and is said to be one of the fastest growing equestrian sports in the world.

Mahathir urged families to take up horse riding or harness driving as a recreational activity.

"I hope this sport will get on and people will realise there is a healthy sporting aspect in horse racing," he said in a speech.

"In the past, it was associated with horse racing and gambling and it is not a welcomed aspect of equestrian sport in Malaysia.

"Gradually, it got on and today we see many clubs and competitions and people are showing more and more interest," Mahathir added.