The Real Rider Cup (RRC) comes to the MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill presented by Brown Advisory for the first time in 2025, following the conclusion of the 5 Star (CCI5*-L) Cross-Country competition phase on Saturday, October 18th.
Founded by Anita Motion in 2017, the Real Rider Cup has raised over $600,000 for Thoroughbred aftercare to date while increasing awareness and fostering a spirit of collaboration and community between the racing, aftercare, and equestrian industries.
Mounted on off-track Thoroughbreds and wearing the racing silks of their colleagues, employers, or other connections, participating riders pledge to raise $1,000 for Real Rider Cup beneficiaries and contend a show jumping course, riding for fast, clean rounds. Awards are given for individual and team results, as well as top-earning fundraisers. Thoroughbred riders from across industries are welcome and encouraged. Past riders have included Olympians, champion jockeys, outriders, members of the racing press, veterinarians, exercise riders, representatives of breeding farms and corporate track management, and more.
Learn more at www.therealridercup.com.
Proceeds of the Real Rider Cup benefit the Retired Racehorse Project, New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program, and Beyond the Wire.
