Winning Post

Pony racing steps up a gear

I am so proud of my pony racers! They are all developing into great race riders and their enjoyment and determination is starting to pack the crowds in early at the point  to points to watch them.
 There was a full up 10 for the 138 race at Axe Vale - headed by G Whizz, this time ridden by Megan Nicholls but previously having enjoyed easy wins at Axe Vale under Harry Derham. It showed how much the Devon and Cornwall area riders have come on by how close a race it was.
 Barnaby Treneer didn't have the best of starts - his pony, and, incidently G Whizz, was facing the wrong way when the starter let them go. But they were all soon into their stride and Ravara super Ted, Bronze Lawrance, Bejowan's Bouquet and G Whizz as well as Barnaby's Talponciau Perfect Print were all soon battling their way up the straight,  The lead was changing all the time but close home G Whizz won with Heidi Lewis thoroughly deserving her second place on Bejowan's Bouquet.

The 148s had a mile and a half to run, for the first time this season. It meant they had to negotiate both corners of the course and  not cutting each other up will be something we have to work on!! But this group of ponies are very well matched this year and it was difficult to call the winner. Hannah Welch was in the leading bunch when her pony decided not to take the bend - then changed his mind with her flying out the side door. Luckily she was unhurt and the paramedics were quickly on the scene. Josie Gordon had lost her stirrup at the start but soon got back into her comfort zone and won the 'ride of the day' award. She was a fast finishing third behind a much improved Tarka (Bryony Frost) and Bryony's old pony Jack Sparrow won for his tiny new rider Hugo Hunt.
 we are now looking forward to Saturday's racing at Flete Park (may 2, noon).