Pedalling together: 600km charity cycle to support the equestrian community
Five inspirational members of the equestrian community are embarking on a gruelling 600km cycle challenge from Scone Palace International Horse Trials to Defender Burghley Horse Trials, raising vital funds for Riders Minds and the British Eventing Support Trust.
Setting off from Scone on 30 August, the team consisting of Andrew Ransford (Hiho Silver), Henry Kinchin (First Class Images), Abbie Jenkins (Fairfax and Favor), Thomas March, and Alastair Wilson (Patron of BE Support Trust), will cycle the length of the country over three days, arriving at Burghley in time for the first horse inspection.
The challenge will see them cover approximately 600 kilometres, testing both their physical and mental resilience in support of two charities dedicated to supporting people within the equestrian community.
The challenge has grown from an idea between friends into a remarkable fundraising effort, bringing together individuals who share a passion and a determination to make a difference.
British Eventing Support Trust Chair, Ian Stark OBE said, "Having taken part in the Cycle for Caroline fundraiser, I know first-hand that challenges like this test far more than your physical fitness. There are moments when your body is tired, your mind is questioning whether to carry on and the finish line still feels a very long way away. That's why I have such enormous admiration for Andrew, Henry,
Thomas and Alastair as they take on the ride from Scone Palace to Burghley House.
"Every mile they cycle is helping the British Eventing Support Trust and Rider's Minds continue their work supporting members of our eventing community through some of the toughest moments of their lives. Their determination reflects the resilience we see in so many people we help, and I hope the wider equestrian community will get behind them, cheer them on and, if they can, make a
donation to support this incredible effort."
Organiser of the bike ride, Andrew Ransford added, “The inspiration for the bike ride came from Henry who casually said he was going to cycle to Blair and back again just for fun a round trip of just 100 miles. By the time we arrived at Burghley a week later I had had the idea that in 2026 when Scone and Burghley were back-to-back again how about we cycle from one to another.
“We wanted to support the British Eventing Support Trust as both our business have relied on the eventing circuit for many years and with Tom on board and having lost two friends in the last 12months Riders Minds was the next most obvious choice as a charity.”
Riders Minds founder and Chair, Victoria Musson said: “We’re incredibly proud of this amazing team for taking on such an extraordinary challenge. Cycling 600 kilometres over three days is no small feat, and the dedication, determination and generosity they’ve shown is a wonderful reflection of the equestrian community at its very best.
“Every mile they ride will help raise awareness of the importance of mental health and wellbeing, while generating vital funds that enable Riders Minds and The BE Support Trust to continue supporting people when they need it most. We hope the community will get behind them by cheering them on, sharing their journey and, if they can, making a donation. Together, we can ensure that no one in our equestrian family has to face life’s challenges alone."
Supporters are encouraged to follow the team's journey, cheer them on throughout the route and donate to help both charities continue their vital work supporting people across the equestrian industry.
Donations can be made via the team's fundraising page, with all funds shared between Riders Minds and the BE Support Trust to help provide ongoing mental health support and practical assistance to those within the equestrian community: https://gvwhl.com/3WGQB
