London Pantomime Horse Race

A relative newcomer to the calendar of unusual sporting events in the UK was the London Pantomime Horse Race which has been running (not continuously, I hasten to add) for a few years but is currently in abeyance. It was a costumed charity fundraising fun-run around the streets of Greenwich and the event began like all the best horse races with a parade of the entrants, who were two-person traditionally costumed pantomime equines in the main, with perhaps a cow or unicorn to add a little variety. You could expect around forty horses taking part, with numerous pit-stops for refreshment at hostelries en route as horsing around can be thirsty work, with other entertainers such as morris dancers, celebrity special guests, musicians and more. The race ended with a space-hopper finale over the sticks for the leaders, which could descend very quickly into complete anarchy! An after-race party followed at the Greenwich Tavern.

Helpful Hints

It was a free family friendly event – and all were encouraged to give generously if they could as it was all for good causes. There was a great atmosphere even when everyone was frozen and soaked! The party cost £15 in 2017 and the theme for the year was Rock and Pop Icons. It went ahead even in snow as you can see from the 2017 photos.

In 2021 it should have been on Sunday December 12th but was cancelled; there were no plans for a race in 2022, partly due to funding issues. Future dates & details are yet to be announced and I conclude that at least currently the event has lapsed.

Click here for the event website : https://www.timeoutdoors.com/Events/Running/The-11th-London-Pantomime-Horse-Race-The-United-Neightions-editions

and here for the Facebook page : https://www.facebook.com/pantohorserace.org/