Racing for Rickie raises €33k

The latest in a series of fundraising events for the Rickie Healy Appeal has helped raise more than €30,000 for his ongoing treatment.

The Cork Racecourse in Mallow donated all of the proceeds from one of its October race days to the appeal, which was established to support the young Ballyclough man’s recovery after he suffered life-changing injuries during a holiday accident last July.

Handing over a cheque for €33,000, Cork Racecourse manager Andrew Hogan said they were delighted to be able to help the appeal.

“It was wonderful to see such a strong outpouring of support from the local community on the race day,” said Mr Hogan.

Further fundraising events have been planned under the auspices of the appeal over the coming weeks, including the ‘Rearing for Rickie’ project at the Kanturk Marts. More than 50 weanling’s have been donated to the project, with the Mart set to host a charity auction of them on Friday, March 23.

A Cheltenham preview night will also take place at the Aches Bar in Mallow on Thursday, March 1, with top trainers Jessica Harrington, John ‘Shark’ Hanlon and Ted Walsh already lined up to take part.

Appeal spokesperson Pat Coleman said organisers were grateful to everyone who has gotten involved in various fundraising events over the past number of months.

“The amount of goodwill and support has been amazing and has given Rickie great strength.”

For more information and to get updates on future events check out the Rickie Healy Appeal on Facebook.