Charity races are of huge importance to our industry – allowing non-jockeys to experience the thrill of racing while showcasing how the sport pulls together to support and showcase great causes.
My name is Hayley Clements, I’m 41 and I’ve worked in the racing industry since I was 16. I began my journey at the British Racing School and moved to Middleham to work for trainer Mark Johnston. Over the years, I’ve held many roles – from Rider and Groom to Assistant Yard Manager and eventually Yard Manager.
I’ve always loved caring for horses, travelling with them to race meetings across the UK and abroad. Now, as Racing Secretary for Micky Hammond Racing, my role suits my family life, and I’ve been with the team for eight years. I also run Middleham Racing Tours, where I take guests out on the gallops and into yards to give them a VIP behind-the-scenes look at the sport.
Switching saddles
On Friday 25th July, I took part in the Graham Lee Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) Charity Race at Thirsk Racecourse – a mile-long ‘hands and heels’ Flat race contested by 11 riders. Taking part was a great personal achievement and it truly highlighted how the industry comes together to support each other. I came seventh in the race.
The runners and riders were:
| Rider | Trainer | Horse | Lead up |
| Leon Joughin | Karl Burke | Liamarty Dreams | Shane Gray |
| Esmae Wilson | Roger Fell | Blackanddeckers | Luke Morris |
| Liam Baxter | Sam England | King Of Cong | Oisin Orr |
| Daniel Perrin | Philip Kirby | Tokyo Bay | Kevin Stott |
| Kelvin Osborne | Harriet Bethell | Ideal Guest | Joe Fanning |
| Olivia Rogers | Michael & David Easterby | Ring Of Gold | Joanna Mason |
| Chloe Dods | Michael Dods | Roaring Ralph | Paul Mulrennan |
| Lucy Scott | Tim Easterby | Evelyn’s Phoenix | Rowan Scott |
| Hayley Clements | Micky Hammond | Arranmore | Durran Fentiman |
| Sophie Smith | Gary Rutherford | On The Bubble | Harry Davies |
| Karen Tutty | Gemma Tutty | Look Back Smiling | Jack Mitchell |
About Graham Lee
In November 2023, jockey Graham Lee suffered a life-changing fall at Newcastle racecourse when he was unseated from his mount as the stalls opened. The Grand National-winning rider is paralysed from the neck down having sustained spinal injuries in the fall and is supported by the Injured Jockeys Fund, the charity benefitting from this fundraising race.
The race raised over £21,000, beating last year’s total. The funds will be pooled to support the charity’s vital work providing support in a prompt and sympathetic manner to those jockeys past or present who are injured.
Getting back on board
As I no longer ride out four lots a day, preparing for the race meant getting back in the saddle regularly, supported by brilliant coaching from Russ Kennemore and former Jump Jockey Richie McGrath, a close friend of Graham Lee.
The encouragement I received from the Micky Hammond Racing team was incredible. Jockey Becky Smith generously kitted me out head-to-toe in riding gear, and colleagues travelled to Thirsk to support me on the day. I got to know the horse I rode in the race, Arranmore, guided by our apprentice jockey Aiden Brookes, and I was led up on the day by jockey Duran Fentiman – a lovely full-circle moment, as I’d worked with Duran when he began his career as an apprentice over 21 years ago!
One big family
On the day itself I came seventh – it was fantastic, I thoroughly enjoyed every moment and would love to do it all again.
I raised a total of £1,510 for the IJF by organising a fundraising quiz night, which was supported by a local business, The Dante Arms, and was well attended by guests from my tours.
Everyone involved in the day encouraged and supported one another. I believe the racing industry shows incredible unity and care – we really are like one big family. It was a special, memorable experience and a great team achievement.
All images courtesy of Hannah Ali Photography.
News
Blog