Bridleless not Brainless to raise money for Breast Cancer

Eye-catching team chasers “Bridleless not Brainless” are raising money for breast cancer this season following the diagnosis of one of their team members.

Belinda Shaw was diagnosed with breast cancer in spring this year — however she will continue to ride with the team in-between chemotherapy sessions.

The 39-year-old mother of two has only ever competed in a headcollar and is affectionately referred to as “either brilliantly brave or insane” by team organiser Mark Shaw.

The team of Mark Smith, Belinda Shaw, Joanne Taylor and Georgina McKewan, will compete in their pink outfits at novice level this year however there are plans for a team to run at open level by the end of this season.

Mark Smith, who also runs “Hold your Horses” clinics to promote safer cross-country riding, said: “Short term we want to raise a shedload of money, long term I think we have a couple of horses that could run open so that is a very distinct option.

“When we heard what happened to Belinda we knew we had to do something.

“Not only will we be rattling tins at all the events this year but people can donate via our justgiving page and we’ll also be trying to publicise via local radio and papers.

“If that is not enough then the fact that my sideburns will be dyed pink and I’ve finally tracked down a pair of pink mens breeches should be!”

Their first planned run will be at the Warwickshire on 11 September.

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