Jordan Banjo made his National Racehorse Week debut on Wednesday when horse racing took over central London. The TV personality and member of the Diversity dance group brought his family to Piccadilly to an event designed to champion the sport to a wider audience.
National Racehorse Week, which runs until August 31, gives members of the public the opportunity to meet racing’s equine athletes up close and, for some, it was their first time meeting a horse.
Pop-up racing yard in Piccadilly
Great British Racing, who run National Racehorse Week, took its ‘pop-up racing yard’ to St James’s Churchyard, Piccadilly where people could meet the former racehorse Dehradun, with owner, the jump jockey Lilly Pinchin.
The one day event also featured farrier demonstrations, mechanical horse rides, with tips from Pinchin and top Flat jockey Hollie Doyle.
Events across England, Scotland and Wales
The ten day National Racehorse Week aims to bring racing closer to people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly those in city locations, with events taking place across England, Scotland and Wales, offering over 16,000 free places at more than 90 venues, including racing yards, studs and racehorse retraining centres.
Similar city centre activities have been scheduled in Liverpool and Portsmouth.
Family experience and quotes
Banjo said: “I met a racehorse for the first time recently and it's safe to say I had a great time and left with a true admiration for these powerful animals.
“National Racehorse Week is so cool because there’s a whole week dedicated to being able to meet the athletes, which is something you don't typically see in other sports.”
His wife, influencer Naomi Banjo, who also attended said: "I've always had a love for horses, so I find National Racehorse Week such a lovely opportunity to get the whole family together to explore and learn more about the animal that means so much to me. It is also amazing to be able to see racehorses up close and realise how big and strong yet gentle and kind they really are."
National Racehorse Week runs from the 22nd to 31st August 2026. Events are free to attend, advance booking is required. At some events spaces are limited. To browse participating venues and secure your place, visit www.nationalracehorseweek.uk
