Following a cancer scare (Prostatectomy and, thankfully, a full recovery) earlier this year, Farmer Karl (aka Karlos Dettori 🤩) was inspired to make history by becoming the first person to be selected to compete in the UK's biggest charity race day event, the Macmillan Charity Raceday, for a second time.

Karl is one of only 12 people who have been selected to train as jockeys and to compete in a race at York Racecourse to raise valuable funds for Macmillan Cancer Support on 15th June.

You may recall Karl also competed in this prestigious and challenging race in 2019, when he raised over £20,000 in memory of his father, Colin Avison. Colin passed away in 2006 from a rare and aggressive brain tumour.

On June 15th, 2024, Karl will make history when he becomes the first person in the UK’s biggest charity raceday’s 52-year history to compete in the iconic race for a second time.

This time, he plans to raise even more money (£25,000) to celebrate his recovery from Prostate Cancer in 2023.

Karl said: “The 2019 Ride of Their Lives was the most exhilarating and exciting experience of my life, so to have the opportunity to repeat it and raise even more money for Macmillan Cancer Support, will be a great way to celebrate being clear of cancer.

“Experiencing cancer has changed my thoughts on life. I would like to give back what I have been given (life, quite literally) and the ride is the perfect way to do it.

"I would also like to say a huge thank you to Brian Ellison, Trainer and his team for taking me on again! Wish me luck and please support us if you can. We will be hosting a series of fundraising events, at the Cedarbarn including a Family Fun Day, a Gin Tasting Evening, Pop Up Pilates, a Race Night, a Quiz Night and a Gala Dinner.

The Macmillan Charity Raceday is the oldest and largest event of its kind in the country, raising over £10 million in its 52 year history for people living with cancer.

Held every June, the highlight of the day is the Macmillan Ride of Their Lives race that sees 12 amateur jockeys ride down the famous Knavesmire course. Each year 25,000 spectators enjoy a day with us to cheer these brave riders on as they take on the challenge of their lifetime.