Bobby Burns, the director of racing at Fitzdares, will take on the Oxford Half Marathon on Sunday (October 13).

The 13.1-mile route will see runners travel through the streets of the historic city.

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This will be in aid of Racing Welfare, British horseracing’s human welfare charity.

Mr Burns, who lives in Bourton, said: “A very good friend of mine celebrates his birthday the day before the event and I celebrate mine on the 15th so we thought this year we would do something different and raise some money for a fantastic cause – Racing Welfare.

“I’ve really enjoyed the training and preparation for this half marathon.

“In the summer I took part in the Blenheim Triathlon which should have encouraged me to keep fit but alas Summer has slightly got in the way.

“My cousins are quite serious runners, so I have been gate-crashing their runs which I think they prefer to me dragging them to the pub!”

He added: “We [Fitzdares] always like to support Racing Welfare where we can as we think their work is simply outstanding.

“Back in 2022 I did the Racing Welfare 24-hour bike ride with team Pauling and really enjoyed getting out there and fundraising.

“When signing-up for a half [marathon] it only felt natural to come back and support Racing Welfare again.”

Daisy Felton, Racing Welfare fundraising executive, said: “We’re absolutely delighted that Bobby is taking part in the Oxford Half Marathon in aid of Racing Welfare and we would like to thank him and Fitzdares for their continued support and appreciation of the work we do in supporting the workforce of British Horseracing from recruitment, throughout their working lives, into retirement and beyond.

“Not only will Bobby’s half marathon efforts raise much needed funds but will also raise awareness of the services we provide to those who dedicate their careers to the horseracing industry.”

Mr Burns has so far raised £952 of his £1,000 fundraising target.

To sponsor him visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/bobby-samuel-james-1716283071939.