Freya Byrne proudly wears her ribbon after securing first place in the hobby horse dash. PHOTO: EVIE SINCLAIRCrowds flocked to the Hāwea Picnic Races yesterday for events that featured more than just real-life horses. A hobby horse derby and three-legged race were among the highlights of the occasion, which was first held in 1946. Six-year-old Freya Byrne, a winner of a hobby horse heat, said she had been practising. Competitors in the 1500m three-legged race had the chance to win $200.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 30, 2025 15:35 UTC