The annual Horse Relay returns to Donaghadee beach this Saturday at 6pm, marking the 12th edition of the free community event.

Five teams of four riders, each aged 12 or over, will compete in a relay race along the foreshore. The course includes natural fences and a sprint through shallow surf, with riders passing a baton. The fastest combined time with the fewest penalties wins. A total of £1,000 in prize money is shared among the top three teams, and a prize is awarded for the best turned-out team.

The event is organised by Donaghadee Community Development Association (DCDA) in partnership with Gransha Equestrian Centre, and sponsored by Pier 36. DCDA chairman and sponsor Denis Waterworth described the relay as a spectacular competition, with crowds cheering the riders on. He said the energy and pride of the people of Donaghadee and beyond made the volunteers' hard work worthwhile.

Spectators watch from the sea wall and footpath, as the beach is reserved for competitors and officials. Thousands are expected to attend. No ticket is required, and organisers ask that people stay behind barriers and follow stewards' instructions. Some road and pedestrian access restrictions are likely around the beach and harbour area.

Gransha Equestrian Centre, founded by Adrienne Stuart in 1985 in Bangor, has been involved in the relay since its inception. Stuart said the first two years involved trial and error before the format was refined.

This year's event carries a personal significance for Stuart. Ten years ago, her father, Wilby McKee, spent the day at the Horse Relay meeting friends along the shore. He passed away that evening. Stuart described it as one of his favourite days, and noted that every year people approach her to say her father would be proud. He was known locally as the Donaghadee carpet man.

Stuart will be at the beach this year with Twizzle, a three-year-old horse bred at Gransha.

The Horse Relay is part of the Donaghadee Summer Festival, which this year includes events marking the 250th anniversary of American independence, such as an Ireland Flag Football League fixture and an all-American barbecue. The beach relay remains the centrepiece of the more than 100 events organised by DCDA and volunteers between June and September.

Entries were coordinated through the Gransha Equestrian app. Spectators can check DCDA and Ards and North Down Borough Council social media channels for any last-minute changes.