A PONY racer’s dream came a reality as she met her hero, Rachael Blackmore, at Betfair Chase over the weekend.

Lexi Everington, who came from Shropshire with her friends and family for the race at Haydock Park, was brought to tears when she had the opportunity to meet the Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup-winning jockey, who Lexi previously penned an article about.

Rachael took time out of her day to meet the superfan, which Lexi described as the best moment of her life.

The 10-year-old, who races with her own pony Mr Jerry Himself, took home a signed picture, a pair of jockey’s racing goggles, and a memory she will keep with her forever.

St Helens Star: Lexi with a signed picture Lexi with a signed picture (Image: RyanDayPhotography)

Speaking about the experience, Lexi said: "Rachael has been a hero of mine since she won the Grand National and since then I’ve followed her and watched her in every race.

"She was really kind to me and honestly it was probably the best moment of my life.

"She gave me her goggles and they’re probably more important to me than my dog."

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The meet-up came after Molly Dingwall, general manager of the Haydock racecourse, read an article showing Lexi’s letter about her favourite jockey.

This led the general manager to make it her mission for them to meet as Rachael Blackmore headed to the racecourse with her ride A Plus Tard.

St Helens Star: Lexi with her hero Rachael Blackmore Lexi with her hero Rachael Blackmore (Image: AdamKenrickPhotography)

Molly said: "Horseracing is a truly emotive sport; we had such an incredible day for the Betfair Chase which was topped off by managing to fulfil young Lexi’s dream of meeting her hero Rachael.

"Lexi is a keen pony racer and to be able to get this to happen was very special.

"Hopefully we will see Lexi compete here at Haydock Park in our pony races and one day we may see her race under rules here.

"Here at Haydock we are passionate about horse racing’s continued growth as a sport and getting people of all ages involved."

The return of Betfair Chase saw Protektorat, trained by Dan Skelton, win the race, with last year’s winner Rachael Blackmoore and her ride A Plus Tard pulling up three from the last fence.