A FORMER Telegraph & Argus journalist and writer is to compete in his first horse race – at the age of 58.

Steve Wright will be taking part in the charity race at the Skipton point-to-point race meeting tomorrow on his ex-racehorse, Alexander.

Steve, formerly of Gargrave but now living at Silsden, expects to be one of the oldest riders in the race, which is to raise money for the Candelighters children’s cancer charity.

He said: “I always dreamed of riding Alexander in a race, but I never felt brave enough to tackle the big steeplechase fences. I jumped at the chance to enter the charity race. It will be a huge thrill and is for such a good cause.”

Alexander, a 13-year-old former steeplechaser, will run under his racing name of Adelphi Warrior.

“He has not raced for seven years, but he has really enjoyed our race training,” said Steve. “His dad, Alflora, was sixth in the Epsom Derby, so he has the pedigree.

“The opposition is tough, I gather there are young race yard thoroughbreds and ex-jockeys taking part, so our expectations are not high. But we’ll give it our best and, above all, enjoy it.

“Alexander is in great form. We have won two indoor showjumping events this year and last season we notched a victory at cross-country, tackled our first British Eventing courses, and got a rosette for being the top ex-racehorse at the hunter trials at Craven Country Ride, at Coniston Cold.”

Steve keeps Alexander at Farfield Farm Livery Centre, between Addingham and Bolton Abbey.

Steve is grateful for the advice and support he has received from friends and local equestrians. He has even borrowed racing silks and a special saddle for the race.

“Everyone has been very generous, especially all those who have sponsored me. I have raised around £500, so I am pleased.”

The race will be the theme for Steve’s latest book, to be released on Amazon next month. His first, Run With Your Heart, was published as a paperback and tells the story of his first two years with Alexander.

The charity race is due off at 1.15pm. It takes place at Heslaker Farm, off the A59, between Skipton and Broughton. Admission is £10 for adults, and free for children under 16.