Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Shetland Pony Grand National

The Shetland pony is the smallest of the British native breeds with a maximum height of 42" (107cm) and is seen as small as 28" (72cm) or so. It is hardy and resilient being very strong for its size. It has a medium sized head, a rather dished face with a well shaped muzzle and a jaw capable of grazing poor growth over an extensive area.

For these miniature equines there are miniature jockeys to ride them. Infact, all the runners and riders are aged between 10 and 12 years old. The racing is Fast, Furious and Fun!

Shetland Pony Grand Nationals are one of the highlights of many country shows up and down Britain during the summer. They bring a lot of pleasure to the watching public and the young jockeys.

The course is two laps of the show ring and runners and riders have to jump all five fences twice. In the end, 10 year Charles Graves won quite comfortably on his pony “Lancing.” Quite whether Charles will take up professional duties in years to come is unknown, but one thing is for sure, all the punters walked away with a smile on their faces, as none of them lost any money on the horses as betting isn’t allowed!

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