Lizzie Anderson takes on Macmillan Ride of their Lives on York’s Knavesmire
Every rider has been working incredibly hard for this raceday, and each of us appreciates all of the support we have been getting as we approach the big day.
My name is Elizabeth Anderson and I am 20 years old from Ripon, North Yorkshire. I have been riding out racehorses for the last three years for Mark Walford, so taking part in the Macmillan Ride of their Lives on Saturday June 14th is a dream for a work rider.
Why it matters
Macmillan Raceday is the largest charity raceday in Britain. Over the past 53 years, it has raised more than £12 million in support of Macmillan Cancer Support and other good causes.
The charity provides such vital care and support to those who need it most, and I think it is so important we give back. The Ride of their Lives is a unique race featuring 12 amateur riders and each of us must raise a minimum of £4,000 for Macmillan, undergo intensive training to become jockey-fit, and complete the distance of one mile and one furlong across the iconic Knavesmire course.
A new challenge
I am taking part in the charity race as I was ready for a challenge and have seen the impact fundraising towards Macmillan can have on those affected by cancer – it is just immense and so rewarding to know that our efforts will help save lives. The least we can do is push our own limits for a good cause, as nothing compares to what the people affected by cancer and their families go through.
So far, my training has been difficult yet rewarding. I have been getting up at 4:30am to ride out around four lots (different groups of horses at intervals) and then headed to a full day in the office at York Racecourse where I work as a marketing assistant. Next stop is an evening in the gym or Jack Berry House (the rehab centre run by the Injured Jockeys Fund) to practice on the race simulator. I am working hard towards my fitness and technique when riding, and I’m fitter than ever.
Support network has been vital
I have held numerous events to fundraise for Macmillan, including bake sales and a karaoke night which included a big prize raffle. It was great fun and an amazing way to get people involved in my fundraising. I should like to thank everyone for their support so far. You can see more about my fundraising progress using my JustGiving link here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/elizabeth-anderson-1736332816153?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=015
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