Nicola heads to starting line for Macmillan horse race

Nicola Naughton, 45, will compete in the Ernest Cooper Macmillan "Ride of Their Lives", an event she was selected for back in December 2019, and which was originally due to be held in June last year.

After a Covid-enforced delay, she cannot wait to reach the start line, having already raised £8,000 for Macmillan.

Nicola, who works for equine veterinary clinic, Hambleton Equine Practice in Great Ayton, has worked for several horse trainers, while her husband is clerk of Sedgefield Racecourse.

“After what feels like a lifetime, I cannot wait for the race to happen," she said. "It’s going to be a real family occasion; my mum and dad are coming to York with my kids and husband, I want to make them all proud on the day.

“I’ve been overwhelmed by people’s generosity in donating both their money and time. Sedgefield Racecourse have been so generous, and I’ve been training with ex-jockey Phil Kinsella all in his own time, I can’t thank them enough.

“My best friend of 25 years is local horse trainer Gill Boanas, she is supplying me with a horse and leading me up to the start line at York, it will be a very special day.

“I have found it a real challenge to juggle my job, my kids, their hobbies with finding time to practice and fundraise, but it’s all been worth it, this is more than just a horse race.”

The riders faced one final fitness challenge at Jack Berry House in Malton to ensure it was safe for them to compete on thoroughbred racehorses earlier this month. The gruelling fitness tests included push ups, squats, muscle endurance, prone holds and quad bike exercises. All 12 were successful in completing the physical examination.

The jockeys celebrate following their fitness test at Jack Berry House, Malton

“The fitness test was intense and I’m just relieved it’s over and I’ve passed, I’m really excited for raceday now,” said Nicola.

Collectively, the 12 riders have raised £116,000 for Macmillan. “I’m riding for loved ones that have been affected by cancer or were taken too soon by the disease," said Nicola. "I have seen the great work of Macmillan, who have done so much to support family and friends when they needed them most, I hope I can play a small part in helping others receive the excellent care Macmillan offer.”

The race coincides with Macmillan’s flagship fundraising event, which sees people come together for a coffee morning to raise funds for people living with cancer.

Racing fans can support Nicola and the other riders at www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/macmillan/macmillanraceday2020