Wetherby Race Day raises over £60,000

We’re delighted to announce that the Northern Raceday at Wetherby Races has raised more than £60,000.

Grand National winning jockey Graham Lee, who was paralysed from the neck down after a fall at Newcastle Races nearly two years ago, was a special guest at the North Yorkshire course’s opening jump meet of the season.

In his lengthy career Graham rode more than 1,000 winners over jumps before switching to flat racing. The popular Irishman completed the unique achievement of riding to victory on Amberleigh House in the Grand National and winning the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot on Trip to Paris.

He said: “I’m delighted to be supporting Spinal Research and to be back at Wetherby. This has been an unbelievably tough time but Spinal Research has given me and my family hope for the future, and we want to do all we can to support their incredible work.”

Graham was among over 300 guests at a Spinal Research champagne reception, three course lunch and charity auction at the annual fundraiser.

Guests were moved and inspired by international equestrian Saffron Cresswell, paralysed from the chest down in a fall at last year’s Bramham Horse Trials, who was guest speaker.

The talented young rider, who also ran a successful event yard, talked about life before and after her devastating, career-ending injury.

“When I instantly couldn’t feel my legs I understood straightaway what was happening and potentially how bad it was,” said the 24-year-old from Malvern, Worcestershire.

“It’s been really hard going from being so fit and focused on my career doing what I love to facing a very different future, but I’m positive and determined to find new goals and purpose,” added Saffron who recently completed her first half marathon as a wheelchair racer and is building a new career as a presenter and inspirational speaker.

Now in its 35th year, Wetherby’s Northern Raceday for Spinal Research has raised over £800,000 for the charity. Head of Audience and Community Suzanne Redding said: “We are so grateful to Wetherby Racecourse and every single person who supported the Northern Raceday. 

“As we stand on the brink of some amazing treatment breakthroughs every donation, no matter how small, really will make a difference. The science is here; the time is now and together we will cure paralysis.”