Graham Lee Stable Staff Stakes raises £20,000

The stable staff charity race that took place at Thirsk Racecourse on Friday 26th July has now raised a total of £20,000 for the Injured Jockeys Fund, specifically to provide for the future needs of injured jockey Graham Lee, who was seriously injured in a fall at Newcastle Races in November 2023.

The race, which was the brainchild of ITV Racing presenter Adele Mulrennan and generously sponsored by Sky Bet, is unique in so far as the role reversal between the jockeys and stable staff, with the jockeys leading-up the horses for their stable staff riders.

John Greaves from the yard of John and Sean Quinn won the contest and Grace Bell, who works for trainer Paul Midgely, was the top individual fund raiser. Thirsk Racecourse Chief Executive and Clerk of the Course James Sanderson said: “ This fantastic race, in which the jockeys lead-up for the riders, was Adele Mulrennan’s idea and Thirsk is delighted to host it, particularly this year in support of Graham Lee and
his family. We are Graham’s local racecourse, and we have all missed him since his accident. We are already discussing the 2025 renewal and we’ll release details early next year.”

ITV’s Adele Mulrennan said: “ The stable staff and the jockeys really wanted to show their support for Graham and his family, and the Thirsk Stable Staff Race was the perfect way to do it. I am really proud of
the efforts of the riders. They all did brilliantly. ”

Michael Shinners, Sky Bet Racing PR Manager, said:
“ The race is a great initiative and Sky Bet was very honoured to support such a worthy cause. ”

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For more information
Erin Boswell – General Commercial Manager – Thirsk Racecourse – 01845 522276
erin@thirskracecourse.net