SIX months ago Rachel Gilsenan and Olivia Tully had an idea to run a Charity Ride in conjunction with the Ballymacad Hunt in order to raise money for the Irish Cancer Society.

Both families have recently been affected by cancer and due to the care their loved ones received, they thought they would give something back to the organisation.

When they approached Anne Marie Galligan with the suggestion, she proposed going a step further and getting the local pubs in the area to sponsor a “celebrity” rider who had no experience with horses.

Over the next few months a group of 11 complete novices took on the challenge, as it was such a worthy cause that has, unfortunately, affected most people’s lives.

The celebrities underwent a horse riding boot camp with intensive lessons provided by Anne Marie with help from Johanne Donohue and Annieka Cadden and horses provided by Dermot Ryan.

On October 4 a record 101 horses met on The Square in Oldcastle to take part in the ride over varied country, which was organised by Kevin Donohue.

Great sport and jumping was provided with two tracks designed for riders of all abilities. Without the willingness of the landowners in Oldcastle and Moylagh, the ride would not have taken place and they deserve a huge thanks.

A great day with plenty of laughter was had by all and everyone came home safe to enjoy a BBQ in Teddys pub that evening with music provided by the local artists, The Gortloney Rats.

A total of €15,630.45 was raised and this will money will go back into the Meath area to provide night nurses for cancer patients and support for their families.