Riders to join community challenge

Horse riders will be able to take part in the Dukeries College and Complex’s Community Challenge for the first time this year.

The challenge — to be launched on Monday — will see pupils, parents and the public try to run, jog, walk or ride as many miles as possible over three weeks in a bid cover the distance around the world.

It takes place around a specially laid out track on the Dukeries College field and primary schools in the area will be taking part in their own versions of the challenge, led by young leaders from the Dukeries.

This year clients from the Dukeries Riding Centre, including those from the Riding for the Disabled Association, aim to contribute to the total by lapping the menage facility 16 times for every mile.

Mr Martin Gillott, chairman of the Dukeries RDA said: “It is great that this year the Dukeries RDA can contribute to the overall total.”

The challenge will be officially opened by the Mayor of Ollerton and Boughton, Mrs Abbie Truswell.

Challenges include bronze covering a distance of 15 miles, silver covering 25 miles, gold covering 40 miles and elite for those covering 79 miles and over.

The track will be open to the community every evening from 4pm and at weekends.

Mr Danny Smith, college principal, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for all the community to get involved and work towards their own personal goals.

“At one stage last year we had over 300 students and staff out on the track and, with the help of the community and primary schools, we made it around the world.”

To join the event, visit Dukeries Leisure Centre, Dukeries Library or the Learning Station in Ollerton.

For more information visit www.thecommunitychallenge.co.uk