Horse power

When I was 45, I spent the year trying, and often failing, 45 new challenges to ‘celebrate’ what felt like a significant milestone. It was definitely not an attempt to change my life. The final one was to ride a horse in a flat race. (Common reaction: ‘Flat? No jumps?’) I hadn’t ridden for 30 years, and I hadn’t missed it. So I meant it when I walked into the racing yard and asked: ‘Have you got a horse that won’t kill me?’ Richard, the trainer, replied: ‘I’ve got one. You can ride Stop the Show.’

Eyes wide shut

Months of training later, we ran in a charity race at Cheltenham. As we left the parade ring, Richard said: ‘Love him and he’ll look after you.’ When I clicked my tongue – – to encourage him, he swivelled both ears to hear me. It felt