Qatar Racing Team to Run London Marathon for Racing Welfare
The eight-strong team will run under the banner of Qatar Racing and includes the driving force behind the burgeoning Qatar Racing operation, Sheikh Fahad Al Thani. Joining Sheikh Fahad will be his Racing and Bloodstock Manager, David Redvers, and six trainers who train for Qatar Racing: Andrew Balding, Robert Cowell, Richard Hannon Jr, Charlie Hills, David Simcock and Olly Stevens.
It is hoped their participation in the Virgin Money London Marathon on Sunday 13th April will raise thousands of pounds for the charity whose role it is to help past and present stud and stable staff in need.
David Redvers, Racing and Bloodstock Manager to Qatar Racing and the only one of the eight to have run a marathon before, said: "The idea to field a team in the marathon raising money for Racing Welfare was entirely Sheikh Fahad's, although I have to be honest and admit I was not 100% convinced at the outset that he was serious about running himself.
"When the proposal of a team of trainers was first put forward we were treated to as many updates of ailments affecting the trainers themselves as we receive about the horses under their care. However, we are delighted with the make-up of the eventual team. Fittingly, the line-up includes the three training operations who each delivered Group 1 overseas success for Sheikh Fahad in 2013, as well as the trainers responsible for Qatar Racing's 2013 Royal Ascot winners.
"We have been working with the charity Racing Welfare since the launch of the QIPCO British Champions Series in 2011. Sheikh Fahad's passion is for the horses and their care and so he is very aware of the work and dedication of the stud and stable staff who look after them. This is a fantastic gesture by Sheikh Fahad and the trainers and shows their commitment to those who work in our sport."
Lesley Graham, Chief Executive of Racing Welfare, said: "We were over the moon to learn that Sheikh Fahad has chosen Racing Welfare to benefit from his Virgin Money London Marathon challenge. We thank him for his on-going commitment to Racing Welfare, which is invaluable. He has been involved in a number of projects in the past including supporting our 24hr helpline. We wish the Qatar Racing - London Marathon Team all the best with their training and look forward to congratulating them at the finish line in April!"