The Equestrian and Racing Industry Gives Back
It is not every day that the opportunity arises to help service men and woman, who have been injured. To assist in raising funds, the Horses for Heroes initiative has recently been launched and Ascot Racecourse stepped in to offer assistance and a venue for this worthy cause to take place. The Horses for Heroes ride has united the horse racing world with riders and horse owners from a variety of other equestrian disciplines, to give back to the soldiers who risk their lives every day, to offer hope and freedom to their country.
The Horses for Heroes ride will take place on Saturday, 10 July 2010, before the racing card at Ascot Racecourse begins. There will be 2010 horses and riders participating in the event, riding from Ascot, on a planned route through Windsor Great Park and back to the racecourse. Celebrity riders will be completing their ride on the home stretch of the racecourse, between the racing events which have been scheduled for the day. Due to the ride not being a racing event, with riders only walking and trotting their horses, it is expected that horses of all breeds and sizes will be seen on the day, including a few horse drawn carriages.
Each rider that registers to participate in Horses for Heroes has to pledge to raise £500, which is the minimum requirement. The closing date for registrations is Friday, 18 December 2009, and only the first 2010 riders will be accommodated. Riders that have already confirmed their participation includes Lt. Guy Disney (Light Dragoons), Martin Clunes (Actor), Toni Terry (Wife of John Terry) and Anthea Turner (Presenter). Bryn Parry, the founder of Help for Heroes, spoke optimistically about the initiative that hopes to raise £1 million, saying: “Help for Heroes is all about people doing their bit for our wounded heroes. Horses have always supported our servicemen and women so it is wonderful that the equestrian and racing world is jumping into the saddle with such enthusiasm.” For any rider, interested in the initiative and wanting to assist this wonderful cause, commit to the Horses for Heroes now, and secure your place amongst the 2010 riders today.
