Charity Race Days | The British Horse Society

Dreams, determination and a race to remember

Our charity races at Newbury on Thursday 5 November and Wetherby on Saturday 14 November, gives passionate riders the chance to do something extraordinary – take part in a horse race, and raise vital funds to support the future of horses.

From lifelong racing ambitions to personal challenges and inspiring causes, each rider has their own reason for being here.

Meet the jockeys, follow their journey and book a table to enjoy the thrill of who takes gold in our private hospitality suite.

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.

Want to know more about our jockeys? Click here

Come to the race day

Book your tickets

Cheer on your favourite jockey before enjoying a two-course lunch in a private suite and an afternoon of racing as the jump season gets underway. 🐎

Register your interest for 2027 BHS charity race

Our 2026 applications are now closed, however, please get in touch to register your interest for our 2027 races.

We're looking for a total of 24 committed riders to take on a mile-long flat 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.

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 onto the starting line, alongside a group of like-minded riders who support and encourage one another throughout the journey.

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 jockey assessment
Have access to a licensed racehorse aged three+ which has run at least three times under the recognised Rules of Racing
Ride out regularly with a trainer

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."

Email to enquire

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.”