Young fundraiser to run at Plumpton for Injured Jockeys Fund

An 11-year-old boy is to visit Plumpton Racecourse later this month as part of a challenge to run at all of the UK's National Hunt courses in just five days.
James Clarkson who is to run at all 34 National Hunt courses to raise funds for the Injured Jockeys Fund SUS-170903-125920001James Clarkson who is to run at all 34 National Hunt courses to raise funds for the Injured Jockeys Fund SUS-170903-125920001
James Clarkson who is to run at all 34 National Hunt courses to raise funds for the Injured Jockeys Fund SUS-170903-125920001

The challenge, which is in support of the Injured Jockeys Fund, will see young fundraiser James Clarkson and his father Edward travel the length and breadth of the country in order fit all 34 of the courses into his busy schedule.

Writing on his Justgiving page, James said: “Overall the total mileage that I have to run is 50 miles and we will be driving 1,659 miles. It will take five days to complete and the dates are the March 27 to 31.

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“I have done all the organisation for a school project - please sponsor me as it will all go to The Injured Jockeys Fund which is a very good cause.

“Thank you to all of the racecourses for allowing me to run around their tracks. Also thank you to my Dad for taking a week off work to do all of the driving.”

James’s run is set to take place on Monday, March 27 alongside a race day and a number of other fundraising events.

Speaking ahead of the event, Plumpton Racecourse CEO Russell Bowes said: “At Plumpton, we regularly support many charities and The Injured Jockeys Fund plays such a vital role in our sport. We think it’s fantastic that youngsters, like James, are actively involved in both fund raising and horse racing as a sport and are pleased to be part of his campaign.”

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After James’s run, and before the first race, current and former jockeys are taking part in The Grand Hop Gold Cup, a space hopper race which sees a group of highly competitive athletes struggle to hop, bounce and boing along a single furlong.

On the raceday, The Injured Jockeys Fund are also hosting lunch and an auction in the Plumpton Marquee. Proceeds from day are going to the charity, which provides financial and emotional support to jockeys and their families, who have been plagued by permanent or career ending injury.

For more details about James’s challenge visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Racecourse-Run.