FORGET the Grand National – this was the biggest horse-racing event in the Sussex calendar.

It starred junior jockeys competing in the Bob Champion Cancer Trust Raceday Shetland Pony Derby at Plumpton Racecourse, near Lewes.

There were 13 runners and the children raced the miniature Shetland ponies after parading in the ring.

The winner was Mystic Dreamer, number eight, ridden by ten-year-old Alfie Diaper who was kitted out in yellow and black racing silks.

Alfie has been riding since he was three and had been riding Mystic Dreamer for three years.

His victory came only months after he ruptured his spleen while riding his bike.

Alfie said: “We just got a good start and probably the best start I have ever had on a flat race – that was pretty good.

“Off the start I just kicked and prayed for my life.

“I’ve won a few jump races, but this is my first win on flat and feel quite happy that she has come this far.

“When I got her she couldn’t really canter, so I’m really happy with her.

“I was in hospital this year so I couldn’t do many races as I ruptured my spleen on my bike.”

There were seven horse races scheduled to take place after the Shetland pony race on ground described as soft.

The Bob Champion Cancer Trust was founded by jockey Bob Champion MBE, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1979.

He was given eight months to live – but two years later he rode Aldaniti to win the Grand National.

Aldaniti has also recovered form a career-threatening injury.

After “racing’s greatest fairy tale” the Bob Champion Cancer Trust was set up and has since raised more than £15 million to combat cancer.

Pictures: Paul Jacobs