Nomination to champion sprinter Bradsell among Retraining of Racehorses fundraiser lots

A nomination to the National Stud's champion sprinter Bradsell features among the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) live charity auction at the Racing to Cricket event next month. 

Taking place on Sunday, September 7 at Wormsley Cricket Ground, the event features a unique day of hospitality, cricket, and fundraising in support of the RoR. Now in its fifth year, the charity cricket match brings together eight teams representing some of the UK’s most prominent racing trainers and organisations, all competing for the prestigious RoR Racing to Cricket Trophy.

At the heart of the event is a live charity auction at 1.30pm, led by renowned charity auctioneer Martin Pope.

The 11-lot auction highlights include: 

-  A week-long stay for ten in a private villa in Umbria, Italy, donated by Graham Smith-Bernal of Newsells Park Stud. Set within 50 acres, the estate features a pool, tennis court, private golf course, concierge service and  its own truffle woods. 

-  A Cheltenham Festival owners’ experience with Rich Ricci, offering full owners and trainers’ access, exclusive hospitality, and lunch hosted by one of jump racing’s most recognisable figures. Donated by Rich and Susannah Ricci. 

-  A stallion nomination to Bradsell, the brilliant sprinter crowned 2024 European champion sprinter and a multiple Group 1 winner. Donated by Victorious Racing and the National Stud.

-  An overnight stay at the five-star Ellenborough Park, including dinner with ITV Racing’s Luke Harvey, followed by private transfers to enjoy racing on Cheltenham Festival Trials Day and an invitation to the RoR Awards inclusive of a two-course lunch. 

-  A golf day for three at Woburn with European Tour winner Philip Golding. Includes coaching, breakfast, lunch, and an optional overnight stay at the Woburn Hotel. Donated by Harlequin Direct Ltd and the Duke of Bedford. 

The live charity auction has another six standout lots, including Premiership rugby hospitality at Northampton Saints, Hickstead membership with VIP show access, an original painting of Teahupoo by Freddy Paske, private stud tours in Newmarket with a stay at The Jockey Club Rooms and a day’s racing, and two six-litre bottles of vintage Rock Angel Rose.

David Catlow, managing director of RoR, said: "The auction is a big part of our Racing to Cricket event, not only adding excitement to the day but also helping raise significant funds for the important work we do at RoR. Every bid supports the retraining and rehoming of former racehorses, giving them a new purpose beyond the track. We are incredibly grateful to all who have donated such exceptional lots and to those who will take part in the bidding."

To place a bid ahead of the event, email rorauction@ror.org.uk by midnight on Friday, September 5. Remote telephone bidding will also be available on the day by prior arrangement.

A limited number of tickets remain for the event, priced at £215 per person, which includes entry, full hospitality, cricket action and a tour of some of Wormsley’s unique art in the grounds. 

More information can be found by emailing rorauction@ror.org.uk.

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