Posted: 12th July 2014 | Back to news feed
4 Star event rider Phoebe Buckley, most famous for her Badminton, Burghley and Luhmuhlen completions on the pint sized wonder pony Little Tiger, is embarking on a new challenge to join 11 other amateur flat racing jockeys to compete in a charity race in aid of Racing Welfare at Newmarket Racecourse on the 16th August.
Phoebe is not only an experienced 4 Star eventer but is also an experienced National Hunt and Point to Point rider and is now turning her hand to flat racing.
Phoebe has to raise a minimum of £2,500 in order to ride, however knowing the ultra-competitive Miss Buckley she will be aiming for a lot more than this.
“To fundraise for Racing Welfare is very important to me. Racing is not just about glamorous prize givings and immaculate horses in the parade ring. It takes hours of backbreaking toil to produce and run race horses for our enjoyment. Riders and support staff may become injured or suffer financial hardship, some may become homeless or find it hard to look after their families. Racing welfare sets out to address these issues in a really positive way and I hope this race will raise the profile of the charity and also raise a considerable amount.” Says Phoebe.
About Phoebe
Phoebe was born and grew up, living just outside Cambridge, close to Newmarket. She started riding at the age of 12.
“I had seen a TV programme about horses, figured out what a trot was and phoned up a local riding school – telling them I was very experienced! I had some lessons, persuaded my very un-horsey parents to buy me a cheap grey pony who spent a lot of time teaching me that my place was on the floor, not on his back! “ Says Phoebe.
Phoebe comes from a traditional travelling community and has always been a headstrong, determined and hardworking person.
“I left school at 13 and went to work for the event rider, Tanya Kyle (nee Liddle), where I also helped her sister, Toni, break racehorse yearlings for Henry Cecil. I learned such a lot from my time there and it really taught me how to stick on a sharp one!” Says phoebe.
These experiences led to her decision to ride professionally, riding for local owner Val Gingell who introduced her to the world of professional eventing. However, Phoebe is enjoying getting back to her racing roots.
About Racing Welfare
Racing Welfare is a registered charity which provides assistance for stud, stable and support staff in times of need. They give professional guidance and practical help to the unseen army of dedicated staff whose work is vital for the well-being of horseracing. Racing Welfare’s work makes a positive difference to people’s lives by empowering them and helping them to overcome any difficulties they face – before it’s too late.
The charity race is part of a high profile Racing Welfare Day at Newmarket, aimed at raising funds and awareness for the charity.
How the public can Support Phoebe and Racing Welfare?
* Make a donation – Simply click on the link and donate in person or anonymously via Just Giving. Any amount will make a difference and every little bit helps. www.justgiving.com/PhoebeBuckley/
* Via Text - For text donations TEXT FEEB66 then £1, £2, £3, £4, or £5 to 70071
* Corporate or family sponsorship – a range of packages are available, please get in touch for details.
Please contact Nikki Goldup for further information 07769896734 or At EquiExcel info@equiexcel.co.uk
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