5 essentials to be a jockey
Racing to success
Our charity race days give passionate riders the chance to do something extraordinary – take part in a real race, raise vital funds, and support the future of horses.
Each year, a small group of committed riders train hard, fundraise with determination, and line up at the start of a mile-long charity race. It’s a lifechanging experience that brings together riders, trainers, supporters and horse lovers, all united by a shared cause.
The funds raised support our work. From improving welfare and safety, to protecting access to bridleways and green spaces, and ensuring horses remain part of our lives for generations to come.
Ready for a new challenge in 2026?
This could be the bucket-list experience that pushes you further than you’ve ever gone before – a rare opportunity to take part in a real charity race and make a lasting difference for horses.
We’re recruiting riders for our autumn 2026 charity race days, with dates to be confirmed soon.
A total of 24 committed riders will be selected to take on a mile-long charity race at Newbury or Wetherby. Alongside the thrill of race day, riders raise vital funds for BHS and experience something very few people ever get the chance to do. It’s unforgettable, but it’s tough, and it asks a lot of you.
To take part, you’ll need to:
- Raise £3,500 for BHS
- Meet the likely weight limit of 11st 7lbs (including kit)
- Pass a full fitness and riding assessment
- Have a suitable horse aged four+, in training with a registered or point-to-point trainer
- Ride out regularly with a trainer.
If you thrive on a challenge and want to do something extraordinary for a cause you believe in, this could be your chance to step out of your comfort zone and into the starting gate, alongside a group of like-minded riders who support and encourage one another throughout the journey.
Our races bring horse lovers together to support something bigger than themselves. Courage, passion, impact – that’s what this community is all about.
If you’re interested in taking part, or simply want to find out more, we’d love to hear from you.
To register your interest or ask a question, email fundraising@bhs.org.uk
The best day ever
Paula Dewsbury, first place, Wetherby 2025: "It was the best day ever. Everything and more than I thought it would be. I've always wanted to be a jockey and was persuaded not to be, and to go into teaching. Being able to do this and fundraise for the BHS has been amazing. I've managed to visit one of the places that benefits from the funding, and to see some of the children who really benefit from the work the BHS does has meant a lot to me."
Jockey testimonials
Diane Taylor, 2024
“I’ve loved everything about it, even the fitness! The charity does an amazing job, just getting the awareness out there was fantastic as some people weren’t aware of the work you did.”
Lily Bower, 2024
“I've always loved the racing world and been more than happy working behind the scenes but to have the opportunity to get onto the racecourse seems an opportunity of a lifetime! My grandad worked in racing all his life so to get into a race within his lifetime would be amazing.”
Ruth Mcloughlin, 2024
“It has been a great to achieve my place on the Newbury team for the charity race. The whole experience has been all consuming in a positive way. It has reunited my love for the horse racing world, the opportunity to race ride is a lifelong dream, my fitness levels are the best they have been for many years since a serious back injury, and the fundraising has challenged my dislike for asking for money.”
David Waters, 2024
“I’m very honoured, very excited, but it’s going to be worth it. If it’s something you really want to do, then do it.”
Take on a fundraising challenge
2025 Race Days