In pictures: Harness racing in Cardiff

1 of 8 The first thing visitors saw as they approached the races were the bookies who had set up stall for the event. It was their first business at Trelai Park for eight years.

2 of 8 And they're off. It wasn't long before the races began, each one just over two laps of the track. The venue once hosted the Welsh Grand National.

3 of 8 The riders sit in a two-wheeled buggy designed for speed, called a sulky, weighing just 15kg. The horses 'pace' round at a fast but controlled trot.

4 of 8 The final straight ran past the 2,000 spectators. Between races, this horse introduced himself to the crowd, and won over a few hearts.

5 of 8 Jamie Davies, from Brecon, won £400 with his mount, Full Flight, in an early race, but it was a photo finish.

6 of 8 Around four dozen horses were at the event, but some had to wait their turn for the fun.

7 of 8 Keeping Just William under control was a two-handed job for Graham Hammonds. David Bevan went on to ride him in a race.

8 of 8 Another Mattie is brought back to his box at the end of the evening. Perhaps he may visit Cardiff again.