CIRC 013: THE LATE JOE SIMPSON – MEMORIAL RACE AT RIPON RACES – 29 MAY 2025

As you are aware, Joe Simpson passed away last year after a short illness. I previously informed you that as per his and his family’s wishes there was no funeral held, and it was Joe’s wish that he had a pure cremation.

Since the passing of Joe, many people have expressed the wish that they would like to celebrate his life in some way. After consulting Joe’s partner, Emma, it has been deemed appropriate that we hold an event to celebrate his life.

At the NEC Meeting of 26 February. It was agreed that the NEC would personally sponsor a Horse Race in Joe’s name and this race will be held at Ripon Races on 29 May 2025. Joe was a big horse racing fan, and it was felt that this would be a great event which would allow friends, family, and colleagues to pay tribute to him.

The Horse Race in Joe’s name will be part of a full card of racing at Ripon which will take place on the afternoon of 29 May 2025. As well as naming the race in his memory there will be a space in the racecard and on the big screen to pay tribute to Joe. Joe’s family and his partner, Emma will select the best turned out horse before the race and present a trophy to winning connections. There will also be an opportunity for photographs in the winner’s enclosure to make sure that everybody is together and involved.

When sponsoring a Race at Ripon, Ripon Races would usually include 8 tickets with the sponsorship. However, it is envisaged that many more than 8 people will be attending and to make it fair for the whole group, the NEC have negotiated a discounted entry rate of £15 each on pre-booked tickets for everybody in the group.

Should you wish to attend this event, please contact Angela Sinclair at asone@poauk.org.uk who will arrange tickets. Please only contact Angela if you are definitely attending no later than 12noon 31 March 2025.

The NEC will also be looking in the future for a fitting tribute to honour him, so that his legacy continues in the POA.

Please make all members aware of this Circular.

Yours sincerely

STEVE GILLAN
General Secretary