On 3 March, I will be setting off on the Gaucho Derby, a 500km, unsupported horse race across Southern Patagonia. All being well, I should cross the finish line within 10 days, having ridden 7 unknown horses and survived (just about) with a 10kg pack of all my gear and food. Training is well underway on the ground in Argentina: I have been putting in some long hours gauchoing, scrambling up and down hills on foot and camping out in Patagonia’s infamous winds. 

You can find more info about the race on Instagram (@gauchoderby), or at https://equestrianists.com/gaucho-derby/.

I am covering all of the costs of the race myself, but I will be riding for Friends of the Earth, in the hope that my mad adventure can also do some good for the natural world I love so much. I would be so grateful for any donations you are able to spare: it will make all the difference in helping me get back on the horse on the mornings when it all starts to seem a bit much! 

If you haven’t already heard of them, Friends of the Earth have spent over 40 years protecting the planet. They need our help as they rely on public support to continue their work. They have won new laws to protect our water, wildlife, landscapes, climate and health. But to face the challenges ahead, there needs to be a more positive relationship between people and the environment. Together, with Friends of the Earth, our voice is louder, our actions more significant, our impact greater. Together, we are determined to change the world for good, for everyone.