Some of the UK’s top flat jockeys will swap thoroughbreds for space-hoppers ahead of racing at Champions’ Day at Newmarket tomorrow (Saturday, 14 October 2006) to show their support for the UK’s largest overseas equine welfare charity, The Brooke.
Throughout 2006, racecourses around the UK have been taking part in the Brooke’s Courses for Horses campaign to raise awareness and funds for millions of horses suffering in the developing world. And Courses for Horses sponsor, Betfair, has pledged to match every pound generated by each of the racecourses.
“Newmarket Racecourse is delighted to support the Brooke charity in this most unusual way. It’s not every day you see jockeys on space hoppers – particularly not on one of the most important race days of the year,” says Lisa Hancock of Newmarket Racecourse. “We hope to raise at least £1,000, and all of the money raised will go towards the Brooke’s vital work, helping horses that toil in some of the toughest working conditions.”
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The Brooke runs a network of mobile veterinary teams and veterinary field clinics in developing countries, reaching more than 500,000 equines in need every year. Money raised by Courses for Horses will help the Brooke extend its reach from half a million to five million equine animals that desperately need help in the developing world.
Dirt trial for George Washington
George Washington, winner of the 2,000 Guineas, is heading to Southwell racecourse in Nottinghamshire today for a training session on the all-weather prior to heading out to America for the Breeders’ Cup meeting. His trainer Aidan O’Brien wants to see his star colt in action on the surface before deciding whether to run him on turf in the Mile, or go for the more lucrative Classic on the dirt track.
Kieran Fallon to ride in Australia
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Kieran Fallon has been giving the green light to ride in the Melbourne Cup on 7 November. Fallon will ride top-weight Keates in the famous Australian race. Currently Fallon is banned from riding in Britain and America after he was charged with conspiracy to defraud in relation to alleged race fixing. His trial is due to take place early next year.
Dunwoody to launch ski challenge
A race of a rather different kind will be unveiled at Newberry on Saturday, where the focus will be on skis, rather than horses. Former champion jumps jockey Richard Dunwoody will be promoting the South Pole Race, which intends to recreate the epic journey of Scott and Amunderson’s journey to the South Pole. For more information visit: www.thesouthpolerace.com
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