Hi all,

I am taking part in the Big Half running to support my good friend and former colleague Graham Lee whom as you may know sustained a life changing injury at Newcastle last November. I will be raising funds for the Injured Jockeys Fund who have been helping Graham and his family since his accident and will continue to do so for as long as needed in a charitable way. If you would like to sponsor me and support the IJF, I would be very grateful.

Thank you,

AP McCoy

Below is some information on what the IJF is about:

The Injured Jockeys Fund provides appropriate support in a prompt and sympathetic manner to those jockey’s past or present who are injured, unable to ride, or generally in need. The Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) was founded in 1964 following the devastating accidents to Tim Brookshaw, and then Paddy Farrell in the 1964 Grand National. Both falls resulted in severe paralysis which immediately ended both their careers. Since then, the Fund has helped thousands of jockeys and their families and has paid out more than £20m in charitable assistance.

The Fund has a team of Regional and Centre Liaisons who work directly with beneficiaries on a support basis and a team of 20 volunteer visitors who stay connected with old and isolated beneficiaries offering friendship and company.

The IJF also works closely with racing authorities and other organisations on many initiatives such as funding on course physios and medical services, and research into improved riding protection equipment for jockeys. In 2009 the Fund opened its first Rehabilitation and Fitness Centre, Oaksey House in Lambourn, and in 2015 opened its second, Jack Berry House in Malton, for northern based jockeys. The trio was completed with the opening of Peter O’Sullevan House in Newmarket in October 2019.

In early 2023 the regional provision expanded via the opening of the Taunton Southwest Hub, based at Taunton Rugby Club.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.