Actors, a politician and members of the racing community will be donning silks next month for the first charity race at Newmarket’s July Course, in aid of Racing Welfare and The Household Cavalry Operational Casualties Fund (HCOCF).
Amongst the twelve amateur riders taking part in “The Blue Square Charity Cavalry Charge” on 18 August is the Merlin and Inspector Lynley actor Nathaniel Parker.
“‘Poor horse’ seems to be the expression in most people’s eyes as I tell them I am riding in a race,” said Nathaniel, who has been riding out for trainer Kim Bailey in preparation.
“There was no way I could miss out on the opportunity to ride at Newmarket, the HQ of thoroughbred racing.
“As a patron of Racing Welfare I hope to raise awareness of the work done by this charity.”
Each jockey must raise a minimum of £5,000 for the race, which will be the largest fundraising element of the “Horsemen and Heroes Day“.
Racing Welfare’s Richard Negus said: “We are delighted that Newmarket Racecourse chose to support us and the HCOCF.
“The race will be a huge amount of fun for the racegoers, but no small challenge for the riders. Our intrepid amateurs are really putting themselves through it to raise some serious money.”
Racing Welfare is the sole provider of support to UK racing and stud staff.
And the HCOCF aims to provide financial and emotional support to injured Household Cavalry soldiers and their families,including those who have lost their lives in service.
Jockeys riding are:
Nathaniel Parker
Malcolm Tomlinson
Matthew Hancock MP
Niall Hannity
Marianne Dacombe
Annalea Parker
Kim Pullon
Harriet Bond
Maurice McCarthy
Hayley O’Connor
Ken Clutterbuck
