THE Corinthian Challenge Charity Race is back, but with a difference this year.

Instead of a series of races, this year there will just be one race for riders and it will be staged at the Curragh on July 21st.

Anyone can apply to take part once they have not ridden more than five winners and, of course, most participants have never ridden in a race of any kind before.

Each rider is asked to raise a minimum of €3,000 through sponsorship and/or fundraising. All funds raised will go to Irish Injured Jockeys. Riders will have to undergo an interview and training day at the Racing Academy with a view to receiving their licence.

Applications are now being taken.

Irish Injured Jockeys does a lot more than its name suggests. It offers help to all riders - amateur or professional - and their families when they are facing a crisis, be it medical, financial, psychological or otherwise.

The IIJ also, in conjunction with HRI/equuip, has implemented schemes for the payment of bursaries to assist present and past jockeys to upskill and study for alternative careers when their riding days have ended. The same partnership has launched a financial literacy course for riders to assist them in monetary matters.

A dedicated addiction counselling service is totally funded by the IIJ, and there is a subsidy scheme in place which sees the IIJ pay a contribution towards replacement of helmets and back protectors when needed.

The IIJ has also employed a physiotherapist who provides a support service for riders, past and present. The jockeys who receive treatment are then referred to the strength and conditioning coach, funded jointly with HRI/equuip.

Web: corinthianchallenge.com

Tel: 045 533011 (Michael, Alisha or Nicole)

Email: info@irishinjuredjockeys.com

Web: irishinjuredjockeys.com