Dark Horse is an inspiring British documentary film that tells the inspiring story of a group of Welsh villagers who achieved the impossible. The film follows the story of a syndicate of villagers who won the Welsh Grand National in 2008 with a horse they had bought for just £800. The film explores the themes of ambition, determination, and the power of collective action. But is Dark Horse a true story?
Background of the Film
Dark Horse is a 2015 British documentary film directed by Louise Osmond. The film follows the story of a syndicate of villagers from a small mining village in Wales who bought a horse for just £800 and trained it to win the Welsh Grand National in 2008. The film was critically acclaimed and won numerous awards, including the BAFTA for Outstanding British Film of the Year.
The Real Story Behind Dark Horse
The story behind Dark Horse is absolutely true and is based on the real-life events of the syndicate of villagers from West Wales. The syndicate was led by Jan Vokes, a barmaid from the small village of Cefn Fforest near Blackwood, Wales. Jan and her husband Brian had been breeding and training horses for years, but were unable to afford to buy a racehorse.
The Syndicate
In 2004, Jan and Brian came up with the idea to start a syndicate of local villagers to pool together their money and buy a racehorse. The syndicate was made up of 20 people from the village, and each member contributed £10 per week to the fund. Jan and Brian were able to purchase a thoroughbred racehorse for just £800 and named him Dream Alliance.
Dream Alliance’s Training
Dream Alliance was trained by Jan and Brian, who had never trained a racehorse before. They enlisted the help of a local trainer and the horse went on to win several races, including the Welsh Grand National in 2008. The syndicate had made their dreams come true and the villagers had become millionaires overnight.
The Success of Dark Horse
The success of Dark Horse was remarkable, as the film went on to be nominated for numerous awards, including the BAFTA for Outstanding British Film of the Year. The film also received critical acclaim, with many praising its inspiring and uplifting story.
The Impact of the Film
Dark Horse has had a huge impact, not only on the people of Cefn Fforest, but also on the wider world. The uplifting story of a group of ordinary people achieving the extraordinary has been an inspiration for many. The story has also brought attention to horse racing and the sport of betting, as well as the importance of collective action.
The Legacy of the Film
The legacy of Dark Horse is one of hope and inspiration. The film has shown that anything is possible if you have determination and a collective effort. It has also brought attention to the sport of horse racing and the importance of betting, and has inspired many to take part in the sport.
Conclusion
Yes, Dark Horse is a true story. The film is based on the real-life events of a syndicate of villagers from West Wales who pooled together their money and bought a horse for just £800. With determination and collective effort, they trained the horse and went on to win the Welsh Grand National in 2008. The story has been an inspiration to many and has shown that anything is possible if you have determination and a collective effort.
Key Takeaways
- Dark Horse is a true story.
- The film is based on the real-life events of a syndicate of villagers from West Wales.
- The syndicate pooled together their money and bought a horse for just £800.
- With determination and collective effort, they trained the horse and went on to win the Welsh Grand National in 2008.
- The story has been an inspiration to many and has shown that anything is possible if you have determination and a collective effort.