THE Corinthian Challenge is back after a two-year break and a new set of 16 participants have been named.

This three-race series is a major fundraiser for Irish Injured Jockeys, with each rider aiming to raise €10,000 for the charity in the coming months.

Taking part this year are Jane Davis, Neil Durkan, Peter O’Reilly, Joan Tyner, Craig Kileff, Laura Bennett, Stan Begley, Sonya McAleer, Maia O’Connor Kridichart, Michelle O’Brien, Darren Harrison, Marie Vallet, Laura Burnett, Fiona Dowling, Emer Lawlor and Dean Ryan.

Some of those names listed will be familiar to people in the business while others have signed up for the thrill having heard about the series from a friend or family member.

The 10 female and six male riders have all come through the rigorous interview and assessment stages. Now they must secure horses to ride in each of the three legs. The series starts at the Curragh on July 17th, continues at Gowran Park on September 17th and then concludes at Leopardstown on October 22nd. Points will be totted up and the winner crowned.

Michael Higgins, IIJ general manager, said: “We are delighted to be back in action again this year with a super group of riders. It is important to note this is not an easy challenge.

“The competitors must keep their fitness up over the whole summer and into the autumn, and it demands significant mental and physical stamina to ride in the series. We are delighted with the line-up, and I would like to sincerely thank all our riders for their commitment and goodwill.”

Go online to see more information on the riders and how to support them.

Web: irishinjuredjockeys.com