Exeter Racecourse Family Day returns next Sunday with popular kids’ sprint

Dozens of children will soon get the chance to sprint down the famous home straight at Exeter Racecourse when its popular Family Day returns next Sunday (22 March).

The annual event gives young participants a rare opportunity to experience the thrill of race day for themselves, running along the same stretch of turf as professional racehorses while commentary rings out across the course.

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The children’s dash has become one of the highlights of the day and a firm favourite for families from across Devon, with dozens taking part each year in front of cheering crowds.

Sponsored by Guildhall Shopping Centre, the event promises a packed programme of entertainment for all ages.

Under-18s can attend free of charge, and alongside the main horse racing there will be Shetland pony races and a range of free family activities across the course.

Every child attending will also receive a goody bag filled with prizes donated by Guildhall Shopping.

One of the most popular spectacles is the Shetland pony race, featuring 12 ponies ridden by trained jockeys aged between eight and 13.

The ponies are trained by Nikki Marsden and her son John Lamb, who prepare them in a similar way to full-sized racehorses.

John said the team is excited to return to Exeter.

“We’re really looking forward to bringing the ponies to Exeter again. We train them like mini racehorses. 

“We keep their minds active with a variety of activities and the more they do, the more they seem to love it.”

Jack Parkinson, General Manager at Exeter Racecourse, said watching children run the course is one of the most memorable parts of the day.

“It is such a wonderful highlight for us. Seeing children sprint down the home straight with the commentary going and the crowd cheering is something really special. 

“It gives them a chance to experience what race day feels like and it is a great way for them to burn off some energy and have fun.”

He added that Family Day offers excellent value for money for families.

“Family Day is always one of the best value days out there. Children under 18 come free and thanks to Guildhall Shopping we have goody bags for every child attending, filled with prizes kindly donated by the centre. We cannot wait to welcome everyone for what should be a fantastic day.”

Families can find full details of the racing and activities on the racecourse website.

Gates open at 12.30pm, with the children’s race scheduled to start at 1pm.