Well, well, well, David IS a dark horse. Turns out he’s dreamed of riding in a race since he was 12, though in more recent decades he’d assumed he’d never do it.

Then one of the apprentices spotted a friendly point-to-point open to experienced riders and David literally jumped at the opportunity. His partner for the day? Spotty of course, these two have become thick as thieves. And between you and me, Spotty was as excited as David. He’s always hinted to his experienced riders that he had an extra gear up his fetlock if they cared to ask for it. But opportunities to gallop outside of a field are pretty rare in south west London, even though it’s what we love to do most.

David and Spotty the Appalosa racing. David is wearing yellow and blue racing silks.

David may have been the oldest on the field at Northaw Races in Enfield by about 40 years, but he was also one of the fittest from all his work on the yard, and definitely one of the most competitive. The dream team powered down the course and came in at a very respectable 4th.

If David’s dream came true, then so too did Spotty’s. It’s hard to believe that Natalie rescued the healthy but unwanted Spotty after a local vet was asked to euthanise him.

I may be turning into an old softie, but I do love happy endings.

To find out more about these two, read David’s blog: How my work in mental health and love of horses led inevitably to Park Lane Stables, and It’s time we introduced Spotty.

Prodney is Chief Equine Officer (CEO) at Park Lane Stables, and achieved celebrity status following the TV coverage in 2021. And yes, he really is a bit of a star on YouTube and TikTok. Just search for Park Lane Stables and do follow us!

Prodney’s Blog: David and Spotty go racing

It’s time I said thank you to Reggie

A whole new meaning to ‘it’s what you can do that counts’