Khadijah Mellah Returns to Goodwood and Makes History Once Again
Khadijah Mellah, the first hijab-wearing jockey to ride in a British race, has once again broken boundaries – this time stepping into the ranks of amateur jockeys. On Friday, 22 August, Mellah rode in the Gay Kindersley Memorial Amateur Riders Handicap at Goodwood Racecourse during the opening race of the August Bank Holiday Festival, presented by Virgin Bet.
The 24-year-old, originally from Peckham, partnered Uncle Dick for trainer Eve Johnson Houghton. Taking the lead at the midway point, Mellah rode a competitive race to finish sixth, showing confidence, composure and determination on her debut as an amateur jockey. Victory on the day went to teenager Jude Fernandes, who secured his first win aboard Platinum Prince, trained by Gary and Josh Moore.
For Mellah, the occasion was not just about a race – it marked a powerful return to the same track where she first made global headlines. In 2019, aged only 18 and with just months of experience in the saddle, she shocked the sport by winning the Markel Magnolia Cup on Haverland. That victory captured the imagination of racing and beyond, proving that opportunity and determination could overcome barriers of access, culture, and tradition.
Speaking after Friday’s ride, Mellah reflected on her journey and the meaning of the moment:
“It was a massive buzz, a massive thrill. I feel like there’s definitely loads of notes that I am going to take away and build on. This is hopefully the first ride of many. I hope that this is a statement that outsiders and people from different backgrounds can really push to continue to progress and exceed expectations and hopefully ride more winners.”
She added that the support around her has been critical in reaching this stage:
“I have been overwhelmed with so much love and support. It’s taken a literal army to get me here in this parade ring and onto the track as an amateur and I am really grateful. Onto the next one.”
Her ride on Uncle Dick was a milestone in preparation and perseverance, symbolising her ongoing commitment to breaking new ground within British racing. For Mellah, the ride was also about familiarity and belonging:
“It’s been massive to be back here. The atmosphere is incredible; I couldn’t ask for a better racecourse to have my first amateur ride at.”
Mellah’s story continues to represent visibility, diversity, and inclusion at the heart of racing. Each stride forward is not only personal achievement but a message to women and people from all backgrounds: that racing can be for them too.
At Equitas, we believe moments like these remind us of the importance of representation – because women must be seen to know there is space for them in the industry. Mellah’s journey from trailblazing teenager to history-making amateur jockey is far from over, and her story will continue to inspire.
