Bright futures for the young jockeys crowned Pony Racing Champions

Cheltenham Racecourse played host to the exciting Charles Owen Racecourse Series final last weekend (22-23 October) where the young jockeys showcased their talents in the fast lane.

Sophie Smith, 15, raced clear in the 138cm and under contest to win by two furlongs on the appropriately-named roan mare, Push The Button.

In the hotly-contested 148cm and under final, Oakley Brown claimed the victory aboard the five-year-old pony White Water.

James Brown, the Leading Rider Awards winner, looked the one to beat but instead he could only manage a fourth place finish.

Charles Owen have sponsored the popular series since 2005 and each jockey lining up at Cheltenham received brand prizes such as a helmet and waterproof clothing.

Clarissa Daly, Chief Executive of the Pony Racing Authority is delighted with how the series is benefiting the young riders.

“We have been able to open up incredible opportunities for young people to develop new skills through pony racing that for many, will take them into the horse racing industry through a range of career paths,” she said.

For full results from the Charles Owen Racecourse Series 2016 click here.

Jockeys for The Charles Owen Pony Races Cheltenham 22 Oct 2016 – Pic Steven Cargill / Racingfotos.com

Presentation to Oakley Brown for The Charles Owen Pony Race 148cm & Under won by WHITE WATER Cheltenham 22 Oct 2016 – Pic Steven Cargill / Racingfotos.com

Presentation to Sophie Smith for The Charles Owen Pony Race 138cm & Under won by PUSH THE BUTTON Cheltenham 22 Oct 2016 – Pic Steven Cargill / Racingfotos.com

WHITE WATER (Oakley Brown) wins The Charles Owen Pony Race 148cm & Under Cheltenham 22 Oct 2016 – Pic Steven Cargill / Racingfotos.com