‘Racing Come Dancing’ hailed real success, with all money raised benefiting Racing Welfare

Former jockey now trainer Adrian Nicholls has hailed the inaugural ‘Racing Come Dancing’ event a success, as the charity concept raised over £100,000 for Racing Welfare.

The North Yorkshire-based handler took part in the northern leg of the competition when partnered by his wife, Clare, with other couples including Derek ‘Tommo’ Thompson and his wife, Caroline.

Rider Becky Smith and Hayley Clements, both based at Micky Hammond’s yard, were the eventual winners of the northern contest at York racecourse, with bloodstock agent Tom Malone and his wife, Sara, the winners of the southern event at Newbury.

Strictly Come Dancing professional Ola Jordan, Strictly 2009 winner and TV presenter Chris Hollins and trainer Richard Phillips judged the southern leg, where Darren Gough, former England cricket captain and Strictly Come Dancing champion himself, presented the Inkerman Glitterball Trophy to the winners. Derby-winning jockey Martin Dwyer was one of the judges on the northern show.

“It was brilliant, it was a very well-organised event. Clare Kingston did such a good job of running it and Joel, the dance teacher, did an unbelievable job to get me into any sort of shape,” said Nicholls.

“It was great to be involved in it and I really hope they can get it going now for the next few years.”

Nicholls pointed out the importance of Racing Welfare in the aftermath of the death of young apprentice Tommie Jakes late last month, and has hopes the first renewal of Racing Come Dancing will only be the beginning of raising of more vital funds.

He said: “With everything that has happened over the past few weeks with Tommie Jakes, it has shown a lot of us how important Racing Welfare is and how much these charities need our support.

“On the whole racing is very good at getting behind these causes, I think this event is only going to get bigger.

“The first year was always going to be a case of trial and error, but it was a success across the two nights in the north and the south.

“I hope they keep going with it, if I’m not dancing at the next one I’ll definitely be there to watch!”

Dawn Goodfellow, who is the chief executive of Racing Welfare and also took part alongside her husband, Mike, said: “Racing Come Dancing has been a phenomenal success.

“The passion, courage, and commitment shown by our dancers have been truly inspiring, and the support from across the industry has been overwhelming.

“Huge thanks go to Ladbrokes for headlining our Newbury event, to Tote for sponsoring dance training at both venues, to RaceTech for delivering superb live productions, and to all our dance sponsors for backing the competitors so generously.

“I’d also like to thank everyone who voted or donated, every contribution helps Racing Welfare continue its vital work for the people at the heart of British racing.”