Markel Magnolia Cup Riders Announced

The much-anticipated twelfth Markel Magnolia Cup will come under starters’ orders at Qatar Goodwood Festival, on Friday 4 August.

Since its inception, the philanthropic event has raised a phenomenal £2.1 million. A record year of fundraising was achieved in 2022 accounting for over £324,000 which was donated to The Brilliant Breakfast.

This year, the Markel Magnolia Cup will support Education Above All’s (EEA) Educate A Child programme. All net proceeds will go to a project in Malawi that provides education and support for children most at-risk of dropping out of primary education through a joint project between Education Above All and CAMFED.

The project aims to empower thousands of girls enabling them to overcome barriers to accessing and remaining in school. At the centre of the project is mentorship and local leadership allowing individuals to benefit from quality primary education inclusive of sexual health education, life skills, and well-being sessions, intensive out-of-school support for those facing the most pressure to drop out, and psychosocial support.

In the tradition of the race and its values, Goodwood selects a well-known female-led fashion brand to create a collection of bespoke silks for the jockeys to wear, and in the past has welcomed Morvarid Sahafi, Hermes, Kate Moss, Liberty, Mulberry, and Vivienne Westwood to the Magnolia Cup team. This year’s beautiful designs have been curated by iconic fashion designer Alice Temperley.

A decade ago, the race was conceived to overcome the boundaries within the sport and, more specifically, horseracing, creating an inclusive community in support of women, their abilities, and well-being.

This year’s line-up features a truly inspiring team of riders. The challenge will require total commitment to achieve success, a zealous pursuit of excellence and sheer hard work to win.

Simon Wilson, president of Markel International, commented: “We are proud to support the
Magnolia Cup once again this year. This unique event plays an important role in raising
awareness of critical issues to us such as diversity, equality, inclusion, and female empowerment. Markel is a company born from the belief that people should be able to see the future for its opportunities, and not just its challenges. That’s why we are especially thrilled that this year’s race will benefit Education Above All and supports a project that aids girls’ education in Malawi.”

The riders set to contest the five-and-a-half-furlong race down Goodwood Racecourse’s straight include:

Caroline Miller - 72-year-old, racing enthusiast and supporter of rehoming of racehorses

Dr. Laura Toogood – Digital expert, businesswoman, media commentator and author

Eliza McCalmont – Work rider for George Scott

Emma Russell – Jewellery Designer

Lyn Comerford – Director of Strategy and Operation at Markel

Maryam Al Jaber - State Lawyer in Qatar and the first Qatari female trainer of Camels

Milica Dusanovic – Civil Servant and Naval Reserve Officer

Olivia Bowen – Television Personality

Olivia Kennedy – Owner of cleaning business, single mother and member of Cool Ridings

Roya Nikkhah – Royal Editor for The Sunday Times, journalist and broadcaster

Saffron Oliver – E-commerce and development for Castle Vending and family business Tayto Crisps