Could you jump from a plane? Riders take on Willberry Wonder Pony skydive challenge
By Julie Harding
Event rider Dani Evans has signed up to take part in a tandem skydive to raise funds for her friend Hannah Francis’s charity Willberry Wonder Pony — and other riders are invited to take part.
The skydive event is to be held on Saturday 29 October at the Army Parachute Association, Netheravon, Wiltshire.
“I know I will be petrified, but nothing can be as frightening as the fear Hannah faced,” said Dani (pictured).
There were 40 jumping places available, one of which has already been taken up by Tom Grant, another of Hannah’s friends.
“Doing this skydive is probably the most terrifying thing I could imagine,” said Tom.
“When Dani asked me, my immediate answer was no, then she said it was for Willberry. I had to swallow my pride and reply ‘Yes’.
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
“Hannah was such an inspiration to us all and for me to merely say no because I was scared was not her style. This is a great way to draw more attention to such an incredible charity.”
The organisers, Bernadette Hewitt, Spencer Sturmey and Toni Warren, are inviting riders of all levels to take part hoping each team will commit to raising at least £400.
A £50 non-refundable deposit has to be paid to book a jump. The minimum age is 18, or 16 with parental consent. There is no upper age limit.
The only stipulation for those taking part is that they are Willberry supporters.
Related articles:
- Inspirational teenage event rider Hannah Francis dies from cancer
- H&H inspiration award for Hannah Francis
- Top riders cross-dressing, carrying watermelons and riding a mule for Willberry Wonder Pony
Tom added: “I and hundreds of others want to do right by Hannah’s wishes and one of those wishes was to make Willberry as big, or if not bigger, than Pudsey. This is a great way to put Willberry’s wishes in the spotlight.”
To find out more, click here, entering the date and, on the ‘join a group’ tab, the group ID of 15891, or call 01980 670734, quoting Willberry Wonder Pony 29/10/16.
Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now
