Front running tactics paid off for Hannah Welch as she made the 1m 3f Axe Vale 148 race a real stamina test on her top pony Total Eclipse, writes Lee Glanville.

Welch is in her last season pony racing and her experience gave her the confidence to attack the course from the off.

Tarka and Tina Smith pressed and Calypso with Harry Cobden launched a challenge three furlongs from home, but Welch had given them the slip and won by 12 lengths.

Hugo Hunt was fourth on his new pony Black Pearl and earned ride of the race plaudits as his saddle slipped shortly after the start and he rode almost the entire way, which included two sharp corners, perched on the pony’s neck.

The 138 race turned into a battle royale between eventual winner Diptford Moonwalker, William Cox, and Talponciau Perfect Print, Hamish Clarke.

First one led, then the other, with Diptford Moonwalker getting his head in front as they came off the bottom corner, to score by eight lengths.

Bejowans Bouquet, Tyler Heard, battled on to take third. Newcomer James Armstrong won the ride of the race honours, taking the inside line throughout.

The next pony racing is at Flete Park, at the Modbury Harriers point to point, May 4, 1pm.