Disabled jockey Philip Prince, who is based with West Ilsley trainer Mick Channon, fulfilled a lifetime’s dream when he made his debut on the Flat at Wolverhampton on Monday.

The 17-year-old, who was born with one ear and a lopsided jaw, had his application for an amateur rider’s licence rejected by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) last year.

But Prince and his family appealed against the decision of the BHA’s Medical Review Panel, and following two subsequent hearings and more than 12 months legal representation, he was finally granted his licence.

The teenage jockey made a bold bid for glory down the far side in the amateur riders' handicap at Dunstall Park over a mile and six furlongs when his mount, Barodine, briefly headed the front-running Rare Coincidence.

He remained in contention until off the final bend, but then the Ron Hodges-trained six-year-old weakened rapidly, beating only two home. But despite this, Prince, who hails from the south west, was thrilled to have made his racecourse bow.

“It was a tremendous experience,” he said. “Now I have had my first ride, I am keen to have another – if I can get one!

“I really enjoyed riding Barodine and he did well for a long way, but he needed the run and he will come on for it."

Before the race, Prince commented: “I've wanted to ride since I was 13 and when I was turned down by the BHA it didn't look too promising, but so many people have supported my case and it helped when Kevin Darley [former champion jockey] spoke up for me.

“I love competing in races and pony riding has played a big part in getting me where I am now.

“Mr Channon has been a great source of encouragement, and I’ll always be thankful to him for that.”

Prince took up pony racing in 2006, and has had 30 winners from more than 60 rides over the last three years.

His mother, Dawn, said: “It shows if you want something bad enough and are dedicated, things can come good.

“Pony racing gave Philip a positive outlook, focus and helped him gain confidence. We are not a racing family and were totally new to the sport.

“Everybody welcomed us and welcomed Philip enormously. He has found his disability difficult at times, but pony racing turned things around for him.

“Getting his licence has been a long and at times frustrating process.”