Witham youngster Zak Kent became the second winner of the Shetland Pony Grand National this afternoon, joining Frankie Detorri’s son Rocco in winning the coveted red rosette at the Suffolk Show 2017.
Crowds lined the President’s Ring to watch as the Shetland Pony Grand National got underway this afternoon.
Nine-year-old Zak, who stole the title riding Briar Smokey Joe, said he wasn’t sure he would win the race as it was the first time he had ridden the pony, having been too young in previous events.
The youngster qualified for the final after winning the first of two heats held immediately before the main race.
On what it felt like to win, he said: “It’s just amazing. You get that red rosette...It’s so cool.”
He added that he had been inspired to become a jockey to follow in his uncle’s footsteps.
Dad Warren Kent said: “I’ve got four [children]. The two eldest are now racing cars. The third one is more into his music.
“This one is determined to be a jockey.
“I’m very proud.”
Two further Shetland Pony Grand Nationals will be held at the Suffolk Show tomorrow, at 11.50am in the Grand Ring and 2.45pm in the President’s Ring.
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