Hunt supporters Race for Repeal at Ascot

A VWH joint-master who last year broke her leg in eight places will be riding in the Countryside Alliance’s “Race for Repeal” at Ascot this weekend.

Countess Goess Saurau (pictured) has only been back in the saddle for a few weeks, after a hunting accident in January 2012 that left her in a wheelchair for several months.

“My biggest challenge will be getting on and off the horse,” she said. “The race is the easy bit.”

Seven riders will be representing their hunts to raise money for the Countryside Alliance at the fourth annual Ascot Countryside Race Day (7 April).

Showing judge and joint-master of the Old Surrey and Burstow and West Kent James Van Praagh has already lost two and a half stone for the race.

“I’m really looking forward to riding at Ascot, but at 41 I think I’m 20 years too old!” said James, who used to ride in point-to-points.

Event rider Nicola Wilson – a former European young rider team member, not to be confused with the Olympic medallist – will be racing for the Surrey Union.

Di Grissell, master of the East Sussex and Romney Marsh, is one of the more experienced jockeys in the field – she was leading lady amateur in 1979.

To sponsor the riders, go to www.countryside-alliance.org/ca/events/the-ascot-race-for-repeal-7th-april-2013.

There will also be a charity fund-raising lunch in the Royal Ascot Pavilion on the day. Tickets cost £65 for adults, £40 for under-16s and £15 for under-10s – email countryside-raceday@countryside-alliance.org to book.

General entrance starts at £18, with under-16s going free.

For more information, visit www.ascot.co.uk/countrymeet/countryside-raceday.

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