Markel Magnolia Cup 2023

A diverse Group of Riders Unveiled for Markel Magnolia Cup 2023

The renowned Markel Magnolia Cup is gearing up for its twelfth run set to take place at the Qatar Goodwood Festival on Friday, August 4th, 2023.

Since its inception, this amazing event has managed to raise an incredible £2.1 million. 2023 marked an extraordinary achievement in fundraising, as The Brilliant Breakfast received an astounding donation exceeding £324,000.

In this year's fundraising, the Markel Magnolia Cup will lend its support to the Education Above All's (EEA) Educate A Child program. All net proceeds will be directed toward a project in Malawi that aims to provide education and assistance to children who are at the highest risk of dropping out of primary school. This initiative is a joint endeavour between Education Above All and CAMFED, focusing on empowering girls and eliminating barriers to education.

The project places great emphasis on mentorship, local leadership, and inclusive primary education, encompassing sexual health education, life skills training, well-being sessions, out-of-school support, and psychosocial assistance.

"We are delighted that Goodwood has selected us as the beneficiary of the Markel Magnolia Cup. Collaborating on such an exciting event within the British horse-racing calendar allows all participants to continue the crucial work of providing quality education for children worldwide, which EAA diligently pursues through its various projects. In the UK, we work closely with Educate A Child International," expressed Al Jazi Hasan, the International Engagement Manager at EAA.

As a tribute to the race's traditions and values, Goodwood annually partners with a renowned female-led fashion brand to design custom silks for the jockeys. Past collaborators include Morvarid Sahafi, Hermes, Kate Moss, Liberty, Mulberry, and Vivienne Westwood. This year, the iconic fashion designer Alice Temperley has curated a stunning collection of designs for the jockeys to wear.

"I am thrilled to contribute to the Markel Magnolia Cup, supporting such a fantastic initiative like Education Above All. Horses are one of my great passions, so it feels fitting to design bespoke Temperley silks that empower the female jockeys," commented Alice Temperley, the founder, and designer of the esteemed fashion label Temperley London.

Ten years ago, the race was conceptualised with the goal of transcending limitations within the realm of sports, particularly horse racing, and fostering an inclusive community that promotes women, their skills, and overall welfare.

The lineup for the upcoming race card showcases a remarkable group of riders who are required to showcase the unyielding dedication, a tireless quest for perfection, and sheer perseverance in order to attain triumph.

President of Markel International, Simon Wilson shared, "We are proud to once again support the Magnolia Cup this year. This unique event plays a vital role in raising awareness of important issues that are dear to us, such as diversity, equality, inclusion, and female empowerment. Markel is a company that believes people should see the future for its opportunities, not just its challenges. That's why we are particularly thrilled that this year's race will benefit Education Above All and contribute to a project that promotes girls' education in Malawi."

The lineup of riders competing in the five-and-a-half-furlong race down Goodwood Racecourse's straight includes:

• Caroline Miller: A 72-year-old racing enthusiast and advocate for the rehoming of retired racehorses.
• Dr. Laura Toogood: A digital expert, businesswoman, media commentator and author.
• Eliza McCalmont: A work rider for George Scott.
• Emma Russell: A jewellery designer.
• Lyn Comerford: The Director of Strategy and Operation at Markel.
• Maryam Al Jaber: A State Lawyer in Qatar and the first Qatari female trainer of Camels.
• Milica Dusanovic: A civil servant and Naval Reserve Officer.
• Olivia Bowen: A television personality.
• Olivia Kennedy: The owner of a cleaning business, a single mother, and a member of Cool Ridings.
• Roya Nikkhah: The Royal Editor for The Sunday Times, a journalist, and a broadcaster.
• Saffron Oliver: Handling e-commerce and development for Castle Vending and the family business Tayto Crisps.