Christmas Charity Ride 7th December
Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride Organiser Joan Cunningham, pictured with Horseweek’s Bree Rutledge, who will be taking part in this years ride. Alistair McIlveen of North Down Marquees, main sponsor of the event and the Real Santa himself before the Christmas Rush.
Plans are well underway for the Annual Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride which takes place on Saturday 7th.December. The Ride is once again being Sponsored by North Down Marquees. Irelands Premier Event Specialists. Joan Cunningham Ride Organiser said “We sincerely thank North Down Marquees for their continued support and are delighted to welcome such a Prestigious Company as our Major Sponsor. The Company which is renowned throughout Ireland for exceptional solutions for corporate and sporting events, Weddings, Exhibitions etc.” Alastair McIlveen this week said “North Down Marquees are delighted once again to be part of Joan’s amazing Christmas Event to help raise funds for under-privileged children in Uganda and Rwanda. Where else in Ireland would you see such a festive spectacle ! 300 Santas on horseback and it just keeps getting bigger and better.” The Ride has become a very special date on the Equestrian Calender. Last year nearly 300 Santas on horseback took part. Riders from the Showjumping, Eventing, Hunting, Racing and Showing world not forgetting of course the Happy Hackers join together to raise funds for Under-privileged children in Uganda and Rwanda whose parents have either died from aids or have been murdered. The Ride takes place from Saintfield Livestock Mart on the Belfast Road.by kind permission of Brian and Geoffrey Murphy. Joan said “We are deeply indebted to Brian and Geoffrey Murphy for their kindness in allowing us the use of their fantastic premises which not only offers excellent parking facilities it’s also conveniently situated for people coming from all directions”
The Ride is strictly a hack and therefore suitable for all riders.
The Day commences with everyone arriving at the Mart at 11am for a Mulled Wine and Mince Pie Reception. The ride will move out at 12 noon and should be on Saitfield Main St.at1 pm. approx. led by the “Real Santa” and Celebrity guests in one of George Fawcetts Magnificent Carriages. This Spectacular sight is not to be missed. Santa and the guests will alight from the carriage at the Christmas Tree in the middle of the Town where Santa will meet and greet the children. The famous “Panache” will be entertaining the crowds at the tree with his Christmas Music and carols. Joining him will be comedian Terence McKeag who no doubt will keep everyone in craic. The Ride will then make it’s way back to the Marquee at the Mart where they will enjoy Lunch while once again being entertained with live music by Panache. Children will have a chance to meet Santa and give him their Christmas List. Presents can also be purchased. There will be prizes for the best turned out Santas in all age categories and every child under 12 taking part in the ride will receive a prize. Why not get yourself Sponsored? Sponsorship forms can be downloaded from the website or face book and the money raised will go towards your entry fee. Again there will be lots of great prizes for who ever raises the most money. All prizes will be presented during Lunch. The cost of the ride will be £20 and £10 for children this will include the Mulled Wine Recepton and Lunch. Entrance into the marquee is free and anyone wishing to have lunch can do so for a donation of £5 children free. For further details go to the website or face book www.saintfieldhorseshow.
