A popular fancy dress class is returning to the schedule for this year’s Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) championships, renamed the Gemma Potts Glamour Stakes in honour of the former winner and racehorse owner.
Gemma Potts suffered a life-altering spinal injury while riding at an equestrian event in 2021. She requires ongoing physical therapy and specialist equipment — including a 12-day rehabilitation programme costing £126,000 — to aid her recovery.
This year’s Glamour Stakes will raise vital funds to go towards Gemma’s care, who now uses a wheelchair, while a Go Fund Me page has also been set up for donations.
“I am so grateful for the chance to be involved with Retraining of Racehorses,” said Gemma, who won the class aboard her ex-racehorse Optimal Spirit (‘Charlie’, pictured above and below with Gemma).
“Being at the RoR National Championships with Charlie was one of the best things I ever got to do.
“A huge thank you to everyone involved for supporting me on my journey.”
Emergency spinal surgery
Gemma underwent emergency spinal surgery at James Cook University Hospital after her fall before spending months in intensive care.
She recently returned home after nearly three years in residential care.
The 12-week rehabilitation programme at STEPS Rehabilitation Centre in Sheffield will cost £10,500 per week.
All proceeds from this year’s Gemma Potts Glamour Stakes will go directly towards funding this programme.
“The class is more than just a competition; it’s a powerful show of support from the RoR community, helping one of their own rebuild her independence and quality of life,” said a statement from the RoR.
The statement described Gemma as “a cherished member of the RoR community”.
“Gemma’s story is a testament to courage and community spirit.
“By entering or supporting the Gemma Potts Glamour Stakes you are contributing to her next chapter — a future made possible through therapy, resilience, and shared kindness.”
RoR Championships
This year’s RoR National Championships will take place at Aintree Equestrian Centre on 19-24 August.
It is Britain’s largest event exclusively for former racehorses and includes showing, dressage, and jumping.
The Jockey Club RoR Supreme Champion will be crowned during the Saturday evening performance.
Find out more about the championships here.
Images supplied by RoR
