NEWCASTLE, UNITED KINGDOM - JUNE 27: Jockey George Baker after the second race the Betfred Chipchase Stakes The Northumberland Plate Meeting at High Gosforth Park on June 27, 2015 in Newcastle, England. (Photo by Ian Horrocks/Getty Images)
Classic-winning former jockey George Baker is in training to run the London Marathon three years after a horrific fall at St Moritz.
George will be running the 26.2 miles on 26 April in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund, of which he is a trustee, and Racing Welfare.
Three years ago, George sustained a serious head injury in a life-changing fall while racing at the 2017 White Turf meeting in St Moritz, Switzerland. His injury resulted in an end to the St Leger winning jockey’s race riding career.
“My accident led to many months of recuperation from a brain injury,” said George.
“The IJF swung into action, and the help and support of their rehabilitation teams has allowed me to lead a normal and happy life.
“I was so honoured, therefore, to be invited to become a trustee of the charity last year, as I am a simple testament to what their work achieves in supporting jockeys and their families.”
George is training for the marathon with the help of the IJF team at Oaksey House, using its gym and physio facilities, as well as the specialist Running School, London, which also helped George learn to walk again three years ago.
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“I know that tackling a marathon is a challenge for everyone, but as my balance is not what it was, I have had to learn to walk and run again,” George added.
“What will keep me going is the pledge I’ve made to raise funds for both the Injured Jockeys Fund and Racing Welfare.
“My life in racing has given me first-hand insight into the amazing work both charities do to support their beneficiaries working across the sport, and not just in the saddle.”
George’s total has already topped £2,500 — including gift aid takes it to more than £3,000.
“Three years ago, George had to learn to walk again,” said IFJ president Sir AP McCoy.
“And now he’s going to run the London marathon, one of the toughest things you can ever do. He says himself that it might not be pretty, but to me it’s totally remarkable and I admire him so much for even attempting it.”
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
