Inaugural Chepstow Military Race Day Raises £18,000 for military charities
Chepstow Military Race Day, an inaugural horse racing event offering free entry to current and former military personnel, was held this year on 18 November, generously supporting us for the first time alongside The Royal Hospital Chelsea, and SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.
The event was a huge success, raising £18,000 to be split between the three chosen charities, aside from a small a donation to a Ukrainian charity, taking the total raised for veterans since its inception 9 years ago to over £200,000.
General Sir James Everard formally opened the event, and rang the paddock bell alongside the team of Chelsea Pensioners, ahead of seven highly competitive races in front of the big crowds in attendance.
Chepstow Racecourse executive director Phil Bell said: “Race meetings provide a great opportunity to raise money for charities and we were delighted to host this Military Race Day.
“It was a huge pleasure to work with The Chelsea Pensioners, Combat Stress and SSAFA. The work these charities do for our military is fantastic and we very much look forward to hosting the Military Race Day again on Friday 24th November 2023, when all serving and retired military can apply for free admission once again.”
Rosie Gibbons, of Combat Stress, said: “We are extremely grateful to Chepstow Military Race Day for their very generous support - what a fantastic day!
“As the UK's leading charity for veterans' mental health, we provide specialist treatment and support to veterans with complex mental health issues arising from military service.
“The money raised from the Race Day will help us to continue supporting thousands of former servicemen and women across the UK to rebuild their lives. Thank you to everyone involved.”