The Tuffa Boots Jockeys Challenge in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund brought the curtain down on a fantastic five days of equestrian entertainment at London International Horse Show on Monday evening.
Two teams of jockeys – Oisin Murphy’s team and Megan Nicholls’ team – went head-to-head on borrowed horses around a series of showjumps in a fun and festive race against the clock.
Brian Hughes, a member of Oisin’s team, proved the man to beat, posting a clear round in 25.69 seconds, Oisin was second while Joanna Mason occupied third for Megan’s team.
Oisin’s team, who were coached by William Funnell, also included Tristan Durrell, Jason Hart and Richie McLernon, while Megan’s team was made up of Megan, Joanna, Gina Andrews, Alice Stevens and Lilly Pinchin. They were coached by Pippa Funnell.
“That was the most fun I’ve had in a very long time. To be part of the girls versus boys coming back, that’s good fun and we’ve really been egging each other on,” said Megan.
“I’ve come to this show for years, since I was a kid watching my sisters ride in the Shetland Pony Grand National. It’s always been such a fun event and to be able to ride in it is pretty cool. ”The Tuffa Boots Jockeys Challenge raised money for the Injured Jockeys Fund which helps jockeys and their families who are injured or unable to ride, and has paid out nearly £19 million in charitable assistance since its inception.
