Ladies who have always wanted to ride at the Cheltenham Festival might have a chance to fulfil their dreams this March as new race open to both professional and amateur females is to be run.
Cheltenham is hosting a ladies only charity flat race on Ladies Day of the 2010 Festival — Thursday 18 March.
But wannabe jockeys should act quickly as applications must be in by next Friday — 15 January.
“This is an exciting addition to Ladies Day at The Festival for this season, which we hope will raise a significant sum of money for a worthy cause,” said Cheltenham’s managing director, Edward Gillespie.
“It is also an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for lady riders to take part in the special atmosphere at The Festival. Let’s hope a well-known face or two might be tempted to take part.”
The race is over one mile, five furlongs and is open to a maximum of 12 runners — and there are still places available.
It is open to any female rider, licensed or not, and each must raise at least £5,000. The race will be run in aid of Cancer Research UK.
Jockeys are expected to provide their own horse, which must have run at least twice under rules.
The jockeys will take to the hallowed turf after the six races on the card for Thursday — which includes the Ladbrokes World Hurdle — have been run.
Georgie Brown, partner of champion trainer Paul Nicholls, is the official Ladies Day ambassador and will be riding in the race.
Georgie, who rides out Champion Chase winner Master Minded said: “I am thrilled to be the ladies day ambassador and riding in a flat race will be one of the highlights of what I am sure will be a memorable day.”
Ladies should contact Sarah Oliver on 01886 884488 or email sph.oliver@btinternet.com
