Qatari Racing team to run London marathon for Racing Welfare

Eight top names in racing will be donning their running shoes this April for the London Marathon, in aid of Racing Welfare.

Qatar Racing’s Sheikh Fahad Al Thani, who is also a director of The British Champions Series sponsors QIPCO and Pearl Bloodstock, has set up a team to run and raise money for the charity.

Sheikh Fahad will run himself and will be joined by his racing and bloodstock manager, who is also master of the Ledbury, David Redvers.

Six trainers who train for Qatar Racing — Andrew Balding, Robert Cowell, Richard Hannon, Charlie Hills, David Simcock and Olly Stevens — will also be running.

“The idea to field a team in the marathon raising money for Racing Welfare was entirely Sheikh Fahad’s, although I have to be honest and admit I was not 100% convinced at the outset that he was serious about running himself,” said David.

“When the proposal of a team of trainers was first put forward we were treated to as many updates of ailments affecting the trainers themselves as we receive about the horses under their care.

“However, we are delighted with the make-up of the eventual team. Fittingly, the line-up includes the three training operations who each delivered Group 1 overseas success for Sheikh Fahad in 2013, as well as the trainers responsible for Qatar Racing’s 2013 Royal Ascot winners.

“This is a fantastic gesture by Sheikh Fahad and the trainers and shows their commitment to those who work in our sport.”

This year’s London Marathon will be held on Sunday 13 April.

Racing Welfare helps past and present stable staff in need.

Lesley Graham, chief executive of Racing Welfare, added: “We were over the moon to learn that Sheikh Fahad has chosen Racing Welfare to benefit from his marathon challenge.

“We thank him for his on-going commitment to Racing Welfare, which is invaluable. We wish the Qatar Racing-London Marathon Team all the best with their training and look forward to congratulating them at the finish line in April!”

For more information visit: www.racingwelfare.co.uk

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