From saddle to street: young showjumper takes on London Marathon for horse charity

Hampshire-based international rider Chloe Lemieux, 19, is stepping well outside her comfort zone as she swaps the saddle for running shoes to take on the TCS London Marathon in support of World Horse Welfare. Despite having limited running experience, she is among a small group of runners representing the charity at this year’s event. Chloe is the daughter of Rob and Lisa Lemieux, founders of LeMieux.

“I’ve always been much more comfortable in the saddle than in running shoes,” she says. “This whole marathon experience is definitely out of my comfort zone, but I’m looking forward to the challenge, especially for a cause that means so much to me.

“World Horse Welfare is a charity very close to my heart. Their work supporting horses in need, whether through rescue, rehabilitation or education, is so important. As someone who knows how much horses give to us, it feels only right to give something back.”

Having only previously taken part in occasional Park Runs with friends, Chloe admits the step up to marathon training has been significant, particularly when balancing her riding commitments. However, she says the process has been rewarding.

“I’ve really been noticing the progress week by week, I’ve been loving the process. I’m very excited for race day itself, and hoping to raise lots of funds to support World Horse Welfare’s incredible work.”

Chloe’s connection to the charity is also personal, with a rehomed Shetland pony named Lemon part of the family.

Kelly Clark, Senior Supporter Services Officer at World Horse Welfare, highlights the importance of fundraising efforts such as this. “We’re so grateful to Chloe and our other runners for tackling this incredible challenge. Without the drive, dedication and compassion of wonderful fundraisers like them, we wouldn’t be able to continue helping horses in need in the UK and around the world, as our charity has been doing for nearly 100 years.”

Chloe is one of four runners taking part on behalf of the charity in the London Marathon, with funds raised supporting its ongoing rescue, rehabilitation and education work.

Supporters can contribute via Chloe’s fundraising page HERE