Joanne McCain, daughter of the late Ginger McCain, is one of 12 people to have been chosen to ride in the St Patrick’s Day Derby charity race on March 15 at the Cheltenham Festival.
Run for the past two years, more than STG400,000 ($A597,149) has been raised for Cancer Research UK. Last year’s renewal was won by Lorna Fowler on the Sir Henry Cecil-trained Plato.
The 12 riders represent a wide range of equestrian skills and include Olympic hopefuls and Coolmore employees.
McCain, who rides out for her trainer brother, Donald, said: “I am thrilled and excited to have been picked to ride at the Festival. After losing Dad to cancer last year I feel honoured to be raising money for Cancer Research UK.”
Others taking part include former jockey and Racing UK presenter Niall Hannity, Wendy Normile, assistant to the manager of Coolmore Stud, Tina Cook, three-day eventer and Josh Gifford’s daughter, and At The Races presenter Gina Bryce.
Frances Milner, director of Supporter Led Fundraising at Cancer Research UK, said: “We are truly delighted to be involved in this very special charity event at the Festival.
“Last year, with the generous support of Sir Henry Cecil, the charity race on St Patrick’s Day at Cheltenham helped us to raise a staggering STG250,000 ($A373,218) for our lifesaving research. We’re really looking forward to yet another successful race this year.
“The money raised through the charity Flat race and our wider partnership with the racecourse will make a real difference to the vital work of our scientists, doctors and nurses, who work tirelessly to discover new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
“We wish all of the participants the best of luck and hope that they enjoy the day.”
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