Racecourse trio’s 102-mile trek for charity
ONE of the racing industry’s most worthy causes will benefit from some sterling work by three Cheltenham Racecourse employees.
Head groundsman Ben Hastie, Cliff Packer and Keith Jones are tackling the 102-mile Cotswold Way for Racing Welfare.
They will set off from Chipping Campden on August 14 and walk through places such as Winchcombe and Stroud, before their epic trip concludes in Bath.
Trainer Alan King and Prestbury Park’s clerk of the course Simon Claisse are among those who have contributed to their fundraising total.
The racecourse’s owners The Jockey Club have pledged to match fund what the trio collect to help the sport’s workforce.
Racing Welfare volunteers provide professional guidance and practical help across various areas, from careers to housing.
A recent study by the charity showed stress, anxiety and depression are the most common mental health concerns across the industry.
The top three stressors for jockeys were financial insecurity, finding rides and maintaining the appearance of success.
For trainers, horse injuries and owner debts were most concerning among the 1,500 respondents and members of focus groups.
Ian Renton, regional director for Cheltenham and the group’s racecourses in the south west, said: “Ben and the team have been training hard for their fundraiser and I hope that the weather is kind to them during the week.
“I am always delighted when our team fundraise for such a worthwhile charity in Racing Welfare, who support those who work within the horseracing industry.
“The Jockey Club will match fund all the money raised by the team.”