Natalie O'Rourke, proprietor of Park Lane Stables for the Disabled (RDA), triumphed at the famous Man vs Horse running challenge in Wales over the weekend.

Setting off in the scorching heat in Llanwrtyd Wells, Natalie and her fellow competitors ran against riders on horseback across a 22.5 mile-multi-terrain course.

First launched in 1980, the internationally acclaimed event offers a jackpot for a runner who is able to beat the first horse and rider and has been won just three times in its history. However, the challenge also provides running enthusiasts with the chance to push themselves to the limit against an incredibly tough route.

Park Lane Stables plays a vital role within the Teddington community and across the Richmond borough, enriching the lives of children and adults with disabilities or learning difficulties and helping to build confidence, skills and self-esteem, but its day-to-day running naturally incurs high expenses.

Natalie's remarkable effort on Saturday will help to continue to cover the costs of horse care at the stables with farrier bills costing around £1,000 every eight weeks and hay bills at £1,300 a fortnight.

Reflecting on Saturday's victory, Natalie told Nub News: "It was hot, hot, hot! I was terrified that I had bitten off more than I could chew at my age but once I got running I was ok. The camaraderie was incredible and it was more of a survival challenge than a race with the conditions. The competitors were all helping each other and supporting each other which was how it should be.  

"Due to the heat, farmers had set up aid stations deep in the valleys and up the hills with water for man, woman and horse. It was a fantastic event and definitely character building, even the most experienced athletes were experiencing problems and the horsemanship was also really tested in these extreme conditions. I hope I have proved that is really is what you CAN do that counts!"

A triumphant Natalie with her Man v Horse 2023 medal

A JustGiving page has been set up by Park Lane Stables with an incredible £3,172 raised so far, but an overall £5,000 target is the aim and those able can contribute a donation here.

Natalie added: "We are so grateful for the support and sponsorship and it really helped me to dig deep knowing so many people were rooting for me, there was no way I would have let them down! The money goes directly to keep our charity running. The horses cost a lot to keep and in this weather they need lots of extra support with electrolytes and salts which all cost money. We would never compromise on their care and that is why we have to constantly fundraise."

A massive congratulations from the Nub News team, for more information on Park Lane Stables and the work they do within the community, visit its website here.