Sponsored Ride 2025

We couldn’t have asked for a better day for our 51st Annual Sponsored Ride.  After a week of gloomy forecasts and the threat of rain, the sun broke through just as the horses left the yard at 9:15 am — and it stayed bright and sunny for the whole ride across Wimbledon Common and Richmond Park. It really felt like the weather was on our side.

 

Nineteen horses and riders took part this year, and the fancy dress costumes were some of the best we’ve ever seen. Maria on Lucky stole the show to win first prize with a truly spectacular outfit,Wimbledon Common Fairy, while Helen and Hudson came a close second as a wonderfully stylish jazz cat. Heidi caused quite a stir with her bold Lady Godiva costume, and Suki on Goosey had everyone smiling with the most fantastic carrot outfit, which took an enormous amount of effort and caught everyone’s eye.

As always, the ride was about raising as much money as possible for the riders’ chosen charities — and this year we’re thrilled to share that we raised over £17,000! A very special mention goes to Dickie Arbiter on Rocky, who raised an incredible £2,702, just days before celebrating his 85th birthday. Sabrina on Havana wasn’t far behind with £1,767, followed by Mark on Oliver with £1,529, Suki with £1,287, and Rachel on Bertie with £1,006. What an achievement from everyone who took part.

The Rider of the Day Award went to Joyce, who rode Harley magnificently, and celebrations continued back at the yard with our traditional prizegiving. As always, John arrived in full judge’s robes, keeping everyone entertained with his witty commentary as he handed out the prizes. Drinks, laughter, and plenty of storytelling rounded off what was truly a wonderful day.

We’d like to say the biggest thank you to every rider, every sponsor, and of course, to our incredible WVS team and volunteers who worked so hard to make the event such a success.