Some of the most renowned figures in the eventing world are swapping their horses for bicycles to undertake a 1,000km charity cycle ride in memory of the talented rider Caroline March. The Cycle4Caroline event, launched today (August 19), is spearheaded by leading event rider Piggy March and her husband Tom – Caroline’s brother. The challenge aims to raise a substantial six-figure sum for the British Eventing Support Trust and Spinal Research.
The ambitious ten-day ride will commence on November 20 at Blair Castle, Perthshire, and will cover several prestigious eventing venues, including Bramham, Chatsworth, Burghley, Blenheim, and Badminton. This monumental journey reflects the significant impact Caroline March had on the equestrian community and the commitment to honour her legacy through this meaningful initiative.
Caroline, 31, from Colchester in Essex, tragically passed away through assisted suicide in March, two years after sustaining life-changing injuries from a cross-country fall. Her brother Tom expressed his deep motivation for the challenge: We’re truly dedicated to making Cycle4Caroline a success. I’m eager to take on this challenge and achieve something positive in Caroline’s memory for the benefit of others. Making a difference in people’s lives will make all our efforts worthwhile.
Tom highlighted Caroline’s unwavering belief in the importance of scientific advancement for spinal injury cures: “Caroline’s life was drastically altered by her spinal injury, and she strongly advocated for advancements in spinal cord research. Spinal Research, being the UK’s leading charity focused on spinal cord repair, is the perfect partner to drive positive change in Caroline’s memory.”
Piggy and Tom will tackle the full 1,000km route alongside a core team of cyclists, including BE Support Trust Chair and three-time Olympian Ian Stark OBE, and multi-medallist Holly Woodhead. Alastair Wilson, Patron of the BE Support Trust, will also join the ride. Alastair’s wife, Nicola, a former Olympic silver medallist and European Eventing Champion, suffered life-altering spinal injuries from a fall at Badminton Horse Trials in 2022.
The ride will feature additional stars from the equestrian and sporting worlds who will join for specific segments. This includes members of Team GB’s 2024 gold medal-winning Olympic team, former Olympians, and World and European Champions.
Piggy March shared her personal challenge: I’m not a fan of cycling; it’s uncomfortable and hilly. Mentally and physically, it’s going to be tough. I keep questioning why I agreed to this, but whenever I’m struggling, I’ll remember that I have legs that work. It’s a reminder of how fortunate we are.
The challenge will conclude on November 30 at The Savoy Hotel, London, just in time for the British Eventing Support Trust Charity Ball. Ian Stark, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said: Caroline’s passing was a huge blow to the eventing community, but the March family’s drive to help others is truly inspiring. We aim to raise £500,000 and need everyone’s support to surpass this target.
Every two hours in the UK, someone is paralysed by a spinal cord injury, with devastating consequences. Spinal Research, the leading UK charity funding medical research, is dedicated to developing life-changing treatments for spinal cord injuries.
Tara Stewart, Charity Chair at Spinal Research, added: “Recent breakthroughs in spinal cord injury research offer new hope for healing. We are honoured to be part of the Cycle4Caroline challenge, supporting both our work and the British Eventing Support Trust, and creating a lasting legacy of hope in Caroline’s memory.”