Shetland ponies set for miniature race return at Exeter Racecourse this Sunday

Shetland ponies are set to return to Exeter Racecourse this Sunday, with a field of 11 miniature racers due to take to the track.

Some of the smallest competitors in the sport will sprint down the home straight at 1.30pm in front of a family crowd.

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Trainer John Lamb and his mother Nikki Marsden travel from Enfield in north London each year for the event, making the journey on Saturday and staying near Buckfastleigh with former Grand National-winning jockey Jimmy Frost so the ponies can rest ahead of race day.

“We leave at 6.30am on Saturday to avoid the M25 and get down to Jimmy’s for lunchtime so the ponies can have a proper break and a leg stretch,” John said.

“We’re very lucky. Jimmy looks after us incredibly well and he’s brilliant with the children. 

“Mum stays on site with one of the parents in a camper van, and the rest of us stay nearby. All the parents come along. It’s a big operation to get everyone there.”

He said the trip to Devon has become a highlight for the young riders involved.

“The kids absolutely love it. We came back last summer for three days, riding across the moors, down to the river and going to a local gallops. It’s a real experience for them,” he said.

ABOVE: Arlo of Auckhorn (Image credit: Francheska Altoft)

Among those returning this year is last year’s winner Arlo of Auckhorn, who will be ridden by 11-year-old Sophia Hills. 

Former winning jockey Maisie Ward is set to partner Orknies Gold, which recently finished second at Lingfield.

Last year’s runner-up Luna Larrson is also due to compete again, while Seagfried Norrie, better known as a jumps pony, is expected to make a rare appearance on the flat.

“He’s probably the classiest pony over jumps, but the flat is a different test, so it’ll be interesting to see how he gets on,” John said.

Another contender, Orknies of Siegfried, arrives after a strong recent run at Lingfield.

“He ran a great race staying on over two furlongs two grades higher,” John said. “The only thing is he does like a bit of rain and cold weather. In the summer I can’t get him to place at all, but he loves the winter.”

ABOVE: Orkneys Siegfried (Image credit: Francheska Altoft)

The Shetland pony, one of the world’s oldest native breeds, originates from the harsh conditions of the Shetland and Orkney islands and is known for its strength and resilience despite its small size.

Jack Parkinson, general manager at the racecourse, said the ponies are always a popular attraction.

“We’re thrilled to welcome the Shetland ponies back to Exeter for what promises to be a fantastic day out for all the family. They’re full of character and always a crowd favourite,” he said.

Children’s running races are scheduled for 2pm after the pony race, before the main racing programme begins later in the afternoon.