This year on the 14th June I will be riding in a special race at York to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Charity. Twelve non-jockeys get to live their Franke Detorri or in my cae Mr Piggot fantasy and ride in a real horserace.

The Macmillan Charity Raceday is the oldest and largest event of its kind in the country, raising £10.5 million in its 53 year history for people living with cancer.

I am taking part in this challenge to raise money for this incredible cause to give them the support to continue to do amazing work supporting individuals and families. I've pledged to raise at least £8,000, but I am hoping to eclipse this figure and raise as much money as I can for such an incredible cause!!!

We have all been affected by cancer and sadly will be again so it is with this knowledge that I am putting absolutely everything into this.

This is a huge undertaking for everyone involved and we are sacrificing a lot and putting huge amounts of time and effort into every aspect from fundraising to horsemanship, fitness and in my case rather a large amount of eating not a lot.

From riding my mum’s old horse around the farm, to wake up the childhood muscle memory, To borrowing other peoples horses locally and on to the next level riding out for a local racing trainer - putting racehorses through their paces at 7am six days a week - its a steep learning curve and at times nerve wracking but means I’ll be ready for the big day on June 14th!

Please dig deep and support in any way you can.

Much love

Lester

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 an incredible day with us to cheer these brave riders on as they take on the challenge of their lifetime.