Craig takes on a new challenge

CRAIG Kileff is familiar to many in the local horse world, both as a competitor in various disciplines and through his work role with Bluegrass Horse Feeds. Not content with simply juggling his own equine pursuits and working life, Craig has decided to take on a greater challenge…The Corinthian Challenge gives everyday people an opportunity to compete as jockeys on a normal race day and experience the thrill, excitement and no doubt nerves of riding in a race in front of the crowds against fellow amateurs. It comprises a series of three races, organised by the Irish Injured Jockeys Charity to raise money to support injured jockeys.There are 14 Corinthian Challenge competitors this year, who are all working hard to improve their fitness levels, manage their weight and approach racehorse trainers to source horses so they are be able to compete.The first of the races is on July 17 at the Curragh as part of the race meeting. The race is over a mile and a half, the only differences from all the other races on the card is that participants will start with a flag start instead of jumping out of starting stalls and there is no prize money. The series culminates on October 22 at Leopardstown racecourse.A Derby Show is being held at Moira Equestrian Centre on Saturday, June 25, in aid of Irish Injured Jockeys and to support Craig in his quest to complete the Corinthian Challenge.There will be classes at 60cm, 80cm and 1m and competitors will jump a round of show jumping followed by cross-country. More details are available on the Moira Equestrian Centre Facebook page.