In wanting to do my bit for charity, I had the mad idea to apply for the Ernest Cooper Macmillan Ride of their Lives on Saturday 13th June 2026 at York Racecourse.

I have been fortunate enough to be selected as 1 of 12 riders to take part in a 1 mile 1 furlong flat race around York Racecourse.

The only thing is, I've never sat on a racehorse before, my go to endurance riding is very different, and this event will be in front of 25,000 people, on TV and riding a fully fledged racehorse! The next 5 months are going to be full of blood, sweat and I'm sure tears, as I try and learn the trade and get myself fit enough to be able to race. I don't know what is more daunting, the riding the racehorse bit or the jockey fitness assessment!

This is all in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. A charity that I have seen work with two family members and a close friend and they have always made a massive difference. They are the all needed support when you leave the consultants door with a cancer diagnosis and don't know where to go, or what to do next. Cancer is something that affects most of us, either directly or indirectly and Macmillan are there for all of us. Seeing the Macmillan nurses in action made me realise how valuable their work is.

Please follow my journey over the next 5 months, as I endeavour to raise as much money as possible and change everything I know about riding 100 miles in a day to 1 mile in a few minutes!

This is a huge challenge taking dedication and determination, and your support is crucial to help all 12 of the riders raise as much as possible for vital cancer services.

Just £34 can support a Macmillan Nurse for 1 day.

Any donation, however small is very much appreciated.

Kate x