- Wetherby Racecourse, West Yorkshire on 29th October 2021
- Newbury Racecourse, Berkshire on 4th November 2021
Get an idea of what to expect by watching this footage of our 2019 Charity Race at Newbury Racecourse
I don't know when I last travelled that fast, it was over in a flash! It was just an unbelievable, unforgettable day. I'm on cloud nine and I don't think I'm coming down anytime soon!
Isabella Budge, Newbury Charity Race 2019
I love racing, being around horses and getting outside my comfort zone. So riding in an actual race, on a Group 1 track, really is my version of living the dream and fulfilling the wildest of ambitions. I last rode a horse 25 years ago, and then was only average at best.
The seed was sown in November 2019, watching the BHS Charity race and the thrill it clearly gave the participating jockeys. Having recently turned 50 it was now or never to attempt the same.
And so the journey began… over the last 6 months I have got ‘horse’ fit, relearned to ride and now ride out on a regular basis. So far it has been exhilarating, great fun and hugely rewarding and I intend to enjoy every moment of the journey to come and of course the race itself, whilst raising as much money as possible for the BHS and supporting the vital work they do.
Seon O'Connel
Rider information:
- Unlicensed riders without previous recent race riding experience must attend an assessment day at the British Racing School or Northern Racing College.
- Riders are responsible for finding their own horses
- You will have the unique opportunity to ride one of the ex-race horses currently residing at the BRS or at NRC in Doncaster.
- During the training you will be filmed and photographed on the gallops to assess your style and competence
- Maximum weight: 11 stone 7 stone including kit (Riders putting up overweight will need to pay an extra £10 per pound which will be donated to The British Horse Society)
Racehorse requirements:
- You will need a horse that is in training with a registered trainer or a Point to Pointer.
- 4 year olds and upwards who have run at least twice under the recognised Rules of Racing
- All horses to be rated: 0-125 for hurdlers/steeplechasers 0-80 for flat horses Point-to-pointers can also run subject to individual clearance
- All horses to be vaccinated in accordance with Rule E18/19 of the Rules of Racing
Fundraising targets:
Each rider is requested to raise a minimum of £2500 sponsorship in aid of The British Horse Society. Support our jockeys here.
Watch our video of Newbury Riders Sophie & Issy talking about their experience
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Take a look at our '5 Essential Requirements to be a Jockey' article if you are interested in learning more about the process
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