The People's Race jockeys aren't just battling for glory - they're after a share of the £100,000 charity prize fund donated by John Smith's and Ladbrokes.  Each rider on the start line will earn their good causes £5,000, with an extra £50,000 cheque going to the winner. 

As you would expect from a group of racing nuts, charities for jockeys and racehorses are well represented.  But other riders are looking to raise money for good causes close to their hearts for more personal reasons. 

Lisa Rodgers is racing for Cancer Research after losing two uncles to the disease. 

Lisa said: "The more money that goes to Cancer Research the better.  I donate to Cancer Research myself anyway with a direct debit every month - every penny helps. 

"But doing the race, it's great to give so much to charity.  You would never be able to give so much money yourself so I really want to be in the race. 

"And people at work are talking about all pulling together and putting a lot of money on the race with any winnings going to the charity too." 

Alan Lane is splitting his loyalty between Alzheimer's Trust and the Yorkshire Air Ambulance, who flew his sister to hospital in October after a car accident. Gemma sadly died but the helicopter ambulance meant her family could be with her when she passed away.  Alan said: "No matter how much money I can raise for them, I can never repay what they gave us." 

JANINE PATCHCOTT: CARDIAC RISK IN THE YOUNG

Janine is racing in memory of her nephew Paul who died suddenly aged just 13, and Paul's mum Michelle - Janine's sister - who died from cancer four years later. 

Janine said: "There are eight fit and healthy young people dying a week.  It was the same with Paul - we still don't know the reason he died.  My sister would have been thrilled I'm doing all this for Paul." 

Janine has been sending photos through to the charity and already features on the homepage.  And CRY founder Alison Cox says Janine as already helped even before she gets to the starting line because she's raising awareness. 

Alison said: "All the time what Janine is doing is making a difference.  If she gets to the starting line then £5,000 is a lot of money and would be part of a major project - £55,000 would BE a major project."