Frankie Dettori and AP McCoy join stars chasing £100,000 in ten days for NHS

Frankie Dettori, Sir Anthony McCoy and Zara Tindall are among the equestrian stars joining forces to raise vital funds and support the NHS as it deals with the coronavirus pandemic.

The Equestrian Relief initiative, which began on Monday, aims to raise £100,000 in ten days and will feature seven teams competing in daily challenges such as baking an Easter-themed cake.

There is also a charity auction featuring a number of unique experiences including a behind-the-scenes tour with ITV Racing and a round of golf with McCoy and presenter Oli Bell.

"It's a very challenging time for the equestrian community with so many people affected in so many ways," said Tindall. "Being a high-risk activity, we have a responsibility to minimise the impact on the NHS, who are valiantly working to support the nation and save lives.

"Taking part in this initiative and knowing donations are going directly to help NHS workers on the frontline makes it a no-brainer for me.

"I'm looking forward to seeing just how much we can raise."

The fundraising initiative was launched by the team behind Bolesworth and Liverpool International Horse Shows.

The teams

Team Racing Mike Bushell (captain), Sir Anthony McCoy, Frankie Dettori, Oli Bell, Rachel Lugo

Team Presenters Alice Plunkett (captain), Emma Spencer, Nick Luck, Rishi Persad, Luke Harvey

Team Eventing Zara Tindall (captain), Ros Canter, Oliver Townend, Alex Hua Tian, Ben Hobday

Team Dressage Richard Davison (captain), Toni Terry, Carl Hester, Sarah Higgins, Gareth Hughes

Team Showjumping (North) Will Whitaker (captain), Ellen Whitaker, Anthony Condon, Geoff Billington, Harry Charles

Team Showjumping (South) Jay Halim (captain), Scott Brash, Daisy Bunn, Shane Breen, Jess Mendoza

Team Polo Mark Tomlinson (captain), Jack Richardson, Malcolm Borwick, Tom Morley, Hazel Jackson

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