Royal Windsor Horse Show 2025 will provide a fitting and emotional finish line for an extraordinary five-day endurance challenge, undertaken by Tom March in memory of his sister Caroline, a talented event rider who died by assisted suicide just over a year ago. Caroline passed away two years after she was paralysed following a fall at an event during the cross-country phase. She was just 31 years old.
Tom will cycle over 800 miles from Balmoral Castle to Windsor Castle and climb 27 miles of the UK’s highest peaks on foot whilst on his route, with the aim of completing it all in under 100 hours. His mission is to raise awareness and vital funds for Spinal Research, the UK’s leading medical charity focused on the repair and restoration of the spinal cord. This year Spinal Research is also the official Show Charity of Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The Pedal3Peaks challenge begins on Sunday 11 May, departing from Balmoral Castle in Scotland. The first day will include over 100 miles of cycling followed by a climb of Ben Nevis (1,345m). From there, Tom will ride south through the Lake District, scaling Scafell Pike (978m), before continuing to Snowdonia for an ascent of Snowdon (1,085m). Tom will then cycle to the Cotswolds, before completing his final 100-mile bike ride to Windsor Castle. The challenge concludes on Thursday 15 May with a celebratory arrival at Royal Windsor Horse Show.
The charity funds pioneering research into spinal cord repair, empowering the brightest minds in medical science to find solutions once thought impossible. Louisa McGinn, Chief Executive of Spinal Research, commented: “Today, for the first time, research is delivering new function-restoring treatments which will truly change lives. More breakthroughs are waiting in the wings, but we need the funds to get them from the lab to the people who need them. Every pound raised by Tom, in Caroline’s memory, will bring us a step closer on the journey to curing paralysis.”
The partnership between Royal Windsor Horse Show and Spinal Research is a natural one, strengthened by the charity’s roots within the equestrian world. With the support of riders, ambassadors, and advocates alike, Spinal Research continues to push towards its vision: a world where paralysis can be cured.
Speaking on Tom’s challenge, James Shaw, Event Director of Royal Windsor Horse Show, said: “We are truly honoured to be the finishing destination for the Pedal3Peaks challenge. Tom’s story is one of courage, resilience and purpose – and his journey is a powerful tribute to Caroline’s memory. Royal Windsor Horse Show feels privileged to help shine a light on the vital work being done by Spinal Research, and we hope Tom’s arrival will inspire many to support this hugely important cause.”
Donations can be made via Tom’s JustGiving link here.
