EVER wanted to live the life of a racehorse owner? For anyone who has ever dreamed of cheering on their own noble steed as it wins by a nose at incredible odds, an event being held this July could perhaps give a light-hearted taste of that excitement — on a slightly lower level. The Okehampton Lions Club is holding its first donkey derby on July 1 — and a few of the racing donkeys taking part are still in need of sponsors. Sponsoring a donkey for a race costs just £30 — sponsors can then choose a name for the animal, which will appear in the programme along with the owner's name and the donkey's breeding — which can also be made up by the owner. Donkeys already sponsored include 'Rumble Rescue', entered into the race by Rapid UK, and 'My Time' — sponsored by Country Lanes. The donkey derby promises to be a fun day out for all the family, with several races to watch, donkey and pony rides, over 30 stalls, and totes so that 'owners' and spectators alike can have a flutter. The donkeys themselves will be coming to Okehampton especially for the event from Guildford, courtesy of 'Hunt's Racing Donkeys'. To sponsor a donkey, advertise in the programme for the event, or enquire about stalls on the day, please call organiser Peter Roberts on 01837 55239.
