Christmas has come early this year for Ascot Racecourse’s much-loved Shetland pony Daffy, whose one secret wish is to be transformed into a magical unicorn.
Longing to embrace the biggest trend of the year, Daffy’s dream has finally come true and he will be whole-heartedly celebrating ‘unicorn-mania’ this festive season.
Video footage of when Daffy was transformed into a unicorn can be found online here: https://youtu.be/7pM7vJSNooQ or you can download the video here.
Daffy – who has starred in the racecourse’s last three Christmas videos – hopes to bring good fortune to the jockeys, horses and racegoers attending the Christmas Racing Weekend on Friday 22nd and Saturday 23rd December.
Ascot Racecourse embarked on a mission to grant their four-legged friend’s wish, transforming him into the mythical creature, complete with colourful mane and a specially designed horn.
Juliet Slot, Commercial Director of Ascot Racecourse, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Daffy back as the star of our Christmas video this year and to make his ultimate wish come true was a fitting way to celebrate his third year. From meeting his Shetland love Daphne in 2016 to becoming a unicorn in 2017, Daffy always brings the perfect dose of magic and warmth to set the tone for the festive season at Ascot Racecourse.”
Jackie Rowberry, Animal Trainer at Animal Dramatics, who owns Daffy, added: “Daffy was determined to exceed all expectations with an incredible Christmas outfit this year. Having witnessed how the beautiful creature has trotted in to the limelight throughout 2017, he felt it was befitting to dress up as a unicorn. It’s lovely that Ascot has helped me make his wish come true!”
Ascot is calling on racegoers to follow Daffy’s lead and embrace the colour and magic of the holidays. Rather than spending the last weekend before Christmas battling the crowds, prepping in the kitchen or wrapping presents, Ascot is encouraging people to wrap up warm and escape as a family to enjoy an unforgettable day of Jumps racing, fairground rides, fine food and plenty of seasonal entertainment. Although Daffy the Unicorn won't be at the racecourse himself, little racegoers will have the chance to meet Father Christmas, pet his reindeer friends and follow the Candy Cane Trail to receive a special gift.
Tickets for the Christmas Racing Weekend start from just £18 for adults on Friday 22nd December and £24 for Saturday 23rd December. Entry is free for accompanied children under 18 years of age making it great value for families of all sizes.
To book tickets and for further information please visit www.ascot.co.uk/horse-races-and-events/christmas-racing-weekend/saturday#raceday-head
See Daffy's earlier videos