About Shetland

Filskit the Shetland Island Games Mascot

Filskit the Shetland Pony is the official Mascot for the Natwest Island Games XI, Shetland 2005.

Filskit is a Shetland word meaning "highly spirited, mischievous and excitable". They believe that embodies the friendly spirit of the island games.

In the days before roads the Shetland Pony was used as a beast of burden for carrying peat, seaweed, groceries and people as well as cultivating the land.

But when the mines act was passed in 1842, prohibiting the employment of women and children down the mines, the demand for stocky male ponies increased dramatically.

Shetland Foal

Archaeological evidence can prove that ponies have been in Shetland for at least four thousand years.

Shetland ponies can be any colour known in horses except spotted.

Shetlands have been used over the years to carry out many tasks but nowadays are mostly kept for pleasure.

Shetlands apparently make wonderful family ponies, ideal as children's mounts.

They are renowned for the longevity, many stay fit and healthy into old age and are often on hand to educate a second generation.

Their natural affinity with children, willingness to oblige and good nature can also make them popular with Riding for the Disabled Groups.

The Shetland pony is known for its height, its low centre of gravity to stopping them from blowing over in the wind!