Over the last year more than ever I have felt that it is so important to make the most of every opportunity that comes my way. I have a 'bucket list' of things that I would like to do with Cloudy and this would be a huge one ticked off that list! To get to ride at a racecourse like Newbury would be such an amazing experience.

I  rode Cloudy whilst he was in training and was so fortunate to be gifted him by the Mick Fitzgerald Racing Club when he retired from a successful chasing career trained by Philip Hobbs. He has given me some on the best days doing things that I could only of dreamed of as a pony mad (but without the vital ingredient of a pony) child. So we have spent the last few years achieving those childhood dreams as he has carried me around point-to-points, one day events, hunter trials and team chases. It would mean so much to me to ride him in this charity race, raising money for such a good cause. 

Changing lives through horses will make such a difference to so many young people. The confidence that being around horses gives you is invaluable and can be transferred to other areas of your life to improve your communication, confidence, relationships, teamwork, responsibility and personal achievement. 

Horses give you such a sense of freedom and encourage you to live in the moment. Just being around animals and nature brings such positive benefits and the BHS is ensuring that everyone can access this regardless of their background or circumstances.

Thank you for reading this and if you can, please donate and remember to use the added benefit of gift aid to help me achieve my target for this charity.