READ FOR DETAILS!
http://i.imgur.com/i2AukAq.jpg -- screenshot of the layout
Start with two pressure plates side by side
Run redstone wire in a trench beside each plate 5 or 6 blocks up the track (both sides).
Place a block in the trench and add a redstone torch to the opposite side (an inverter)
Place the pistons on the track between the redstone torches, they need to be extended by default. I placed my pistons 1 block lower down and put sand on top but bare pistons probably work fine too.
Repeat this process, adding more space between the pressure plates and pistons with each repetition. Leave a gap of two blocks between the new pressure plates and the previous pistons.
You can build 'er in 5 minutes or less! Then just keep your horse aligned as you run up the track. You need to hit both pressure plates to get both pistons to retract, though you can wire it differently if you want to get all fancy with it ;)
Had this idea when I found my first horses. BdoubleO and BlameTheController inspired me to make and put the video online! Put them nags to the test! Money's on BTC but Pam's a contender.
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