The British Horse Society’s (BHS) annual charity race days returned once again for two days of fitness tests, fundraising and fun. A brand-new set of budding jockeys headed to Wetherby Racecourse on 28 October and Newbury Racecourse on 3 November, all in an effort to raise funds for the charitable goals of the BHS.
Heading to the starting line, all of the jockeys exuded determination and dedication to collectively raise an impressive £40,000. The total for the two days, which included donations to the silent auctions, was £50,000 all of which goes to the charity’s initiatives to promote and protect the interests of all horses.
Sixteen aspiring jockeys, from across the country, took to the track at the two racecourses and had to undertake months of intense training to reach the fitness levels and stamina required to race.
Both races were nail-biters as every rider worked tirelessly to chase that winning feeling. Stephanie Batty secured a victory on Ebury at the second annual race at Wetherby, while Isabella Piroli took the win with Bascinet at the BHS’s fourth Newbury race day.
Following their win, Stephanie Batty said: “It was the first time I rode Ebury and I was so grateful for the partnership we immediately built with one another, he really looked after me. It’s just been such a great experience and I would recommend it to anybody.”
Isabella Piroli said: “I just can’t describe how it felt to finish in winning position. I half thought I’d won but I didn’t want to look back! Bascinet travelled so nicely; it was amazing.”
Tracy Casstles, Director of Fundraising at The British Horse Society said: “All our amateur jockeys should be immensely proud of what they and their horses have achieved. Their remarkable journeys have been an inspiration to watch and we’re so honoured to have their support.
A massive thank you also goes to the trainers and owners of all the incredible horses that were loaned to our jockeys for the race. Together, with great enthusiasm, energy and commitment our riders have raised a brilliant sum for BHS campaigns.”
To find out more about the BHS’s annual charity race days and how you can donate, please head to the BHS website.
Suzanne Ashton, Founder of Everything Horse (Est, 2012), has a BA Hons in Marketing Management and a Diploma in Equine Science. Suzanne has ridden and owned horses all her life and has twelve years of experience in marketing, writing, design, SEO, and website creation.