PARTICIPATING in the Corinthian Challenge involves admirable commitment to training, as well as riding in the race at the Curragh, all in a bid to raise vital funds for the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund.

Learn more about two more of this year’s participants in this week’s profiles.

Thirteen have signed up to ride in the race, which will take place at the Curragh on Friday, June 26th. They are Jason Kyne, Patrick Stringer, Ivanna Dempsey, Sarah Lionti, Tara Moneypenny, Robin DePelsmaeker, Graham Atkinson, Paul Callaghan, Max Foley, Diego Rodrigues da Costa Almeida, Jerry Scully, Bobby Fagan and Alison McMahon.

Each will have raised at least €3,000 for the valuable cause, with all donations welcome via the website, corinthianchallenge.com

Alison McMahon

I hail from Ballingarry, Limerick, and have been surrounded by horses for most of my life.

Horse racing has always been a significant part of my family - my uncle, Billy Lee, is a successful flat jockey and my aunt, Gillian Scott, is a trainer. I have long admired the work of Irish Injured Jockeys and have followed their charity race for many years.

Therefore, I am thrilled to be selected as one of the participants in this year’s race. I eagerly anticipate the lead-up to race day at the Curragh Racecourse during Derby weekend.

I would like to thank my main sponsors Great National Ballykisteen Golf Hotel, and also Martin O’Toole Electrical.

Diego Rodrigues da Costa Almeida

I have dedicated my entire life to riding horses and transformed my passion for speed and equestrianism into a career. Working daily in the heart of the racing industry, in the Curragh for D.K. Weld, I understand like few others the adrenaline of being on the track and the unique connection between horse and rider.

Riding is not just a job; it’s a lifestyle that demands rigorous discipline and unwavering courage.

I chose to support Irish Injured Jockeys because I understand that behind every exciting day of racing, there is a real and constant risk. Jockeys are incredibly resilient athletes, but their careers are short and falls can change lives in an instant.

I want to contribute to ensuring that: Recovery and Rehabilitation - Those who have suffered serious injuries have access to the best possible medical and physiotherapy support.

Mental Health - The emotional well-being of jockeys is prioritised, especially during difficult periods away from the track.

Post-Career Future - There is a safety net and retraining programmes for when life in the saddle comes to an end. Participating in this challenge is my way of giving back to the sport I love, helping to protect the people who make it possible.