Tour d'Horse Surpasses $1 Million in Donations- One Ride from the Finish Line

As Tour d’Horse enters its final stages, riders are mounting up for Day Five - proudly supported by Newgate, one of Australia’s premier thoroughbred operations.

With the final ride on the horizon, there’s a quiet intensity among the riders. Muscles are sore, spirits are high, and every kilometre covered feels like a testament to the cause. These horses and their riders are carrying the weight of stories told by the kids who have overcome trauma.

From burns and life-altering injuries to the long road of emotional and physical recovery, the KIDS Foundation has spent over three decades helping young survivors rebuild confidence and rediscover joy. Funds raised from Tour d’Horse will directly support the expansion of these trauma recovery and prevention programs across Australia.

And today, the riders reached a monumental milestone - surpassing the $1 million fundraising goal.

“This moment is overwhelming in the best way,” said Dr Susie O’Neill, Founder and CEO of the KIDS Foundation. “Reaching $1 million represents more children supported, more families given hope, and more lives forever changed. I’m incredibly grateful to every rider, donor, and supporter who helped make this happen.”

Trainer Sam Freedman added, “It’s been an emotional and humbling ride, and to know that we've hit the million-dollar mark is something I’ll never forget. I’m proud to be part of it.”

As the riders prepare for the final day, tomorrow will be a celebration of just how far they’ve come - and a reminder that every kilometre has helped change a life.

How to Support:

• Donate or sponsor a rider: kidsfoundation.org.au

• Follow the journey: @thekidsfoundation | #TourdHorse2025 #KidsFoundation #RideForACause #SaddleUpForKIDS 

A VNR recap will be made available for media by 3PM.

Melanie Mullen

KIDS Foundation

Media & Communications [email protected]

0418 331 994

OR

Harry Pepperell

BossMan Media

Marketing Manager

[email protected]

0400 600 296

Images

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Tour d'Horse Photo credit: Nicole Cleary [email protected]

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