Purpose met performance on Wednesday 5th June as local businesses came together to enjoy an afternoon of spirited competition at the first-ever Ride High 7-a-side Charity Football Tournament. Hosted at Sport Central MK, seven teams battled it out on the pitch in an effort to lift the trophy. Not only was the day about celebrating community and sportsmanship, but also about raising essential funds that enables Ride High to continue their work in transforming the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged children in the community.
Ride High offers a programme in which the children attend weekly sessions where they learn to ride and care for the horses while also taking part in clubroom activities which work to improve their mental health and wellbeing. Ride High helps children transition from struggling to thriving as they grow in self-confidence becoming happier individuals.
The afternoon consisted of a series of fast-paced matches, all of which showcased skill and enthusiasm from all involved. After a too close to call final, it was RSM UK that came out on top and lifted the coveted trophy, taking home well-deserved medals.
The event was only made possible due to support and generosity from the community and local organisations. A special mention to Cranswick PLC who sponsored the event, fielded a team but also provided tasty barbeque items to fuel participants after the tournament. Ride High would also like to thank to Sport Central MK for providing the perfect venue and to the student referees from Milton Keynes College who helped to ensure the matches were fun and fair.
A highlight of the afternoon was the penalty shootout challenge which featured the much-loved mascot Donny the cow from MK Dons Football Club. Donny was not only great entertainment but showed surprising agility in goal, saving many of the penalties fired at him by the players.
Ride High would like to thank all the companies who took part by fielding teams- Cranswick PLC, Brioche Pasquier UK, YMCA Milton Keynes, Able Plumbing, RSM UK, Hillier Hopkins, Audi. Their support meant over £3900 was raised which will go far in helping Ride High to continue their mission in supporting children in the community.
Not only do events such as these raise vital funds but they also help spread the word about the important service that Ride High offers to support local children. As a business, supporting events such as these offers the opportunity to engage with fellow local organisations, boost team morale and encourage teamwork alongside supporting a local cause that is making a positive impact on the community in which you work. Ride High is already looking ahead to next year’s tournament with its return looking to be even bigger and better for 2026!
