The prestigious 2024 Markel Magnolia Cup has raised a phenomenal £313,233.62 for local charity My Sisters’ House Women’s Centre.
The all-female annual charity race was conceived over a decade ago, which takes place at the Qatar Goodwood Festival. It was Lizzie Jelfs and mount Reins Reigns Rains, trained by Harry Eustace, owned by The Macdougall Two and sponsored by Howden Group Holdings, who were victorious. Jelfs was joined alongside other riders in the race: Amy Moring, Harriet Hemmings, Aamilah Aswat, Matilda Butcher, Husna Aswat, Sophie Pumfrett, Katherine Lindsay, Lauren Price, Eleanor Franchitti, Ellen Barber and Rebecca Haryett.
This year’s total means the race has raised over £2.5 million for charitable causes since its inception. Goodwood in indebted to the title sponsor Markel, the horse sponsors’ generosity, the brave, courageous women riding and the racehorse trainers and owners who have supported the race, as well as fashion designer Rene Moshi Macdonald of fashion brand Lisou, who designed the jockey silks.
My Sisters’ House Women’s Centre is the beneficiary charity, with all net proceeds going to support the work they do to support women to improve their welfare and wellbeing, helping to reduce their risk of domestic abuse and support recovery, and help them reach their goals for employment, education or training.
Avril Robinson, Acting CEO at My Sisters’ House, commented, “Being the chosen charity for the Markel Magnolia Cup has been one of the most significant opportunities for My Sisters’ House since its inception ten years ago. As a small, local charity, the funds raised will enable us to continue our excellent work in providing free-of-charge, life-changing services to women. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside the Goodwood and Markel teams, and, importantly, be inspired by the all-female line up of jockeys who have all demonstrated the grit to train and take part in such a prestigious event. They are role models for women everywhere – turning aspirations into realities.”
Simon Wilson, president of Markel International commented, “As a global specialist insurance provider, at Markel we believe that business can be a power for good. We have many ways in which we support our communities and wider society, but for us, the Markel Magnolia Cup is a standout event. From the unwavering commitment and courage shown by the jockeys, to the incredible charities like My Sisters’ House that work tirelessly to support their cause, this event demonstrates that everyone has the power to make a difference. Alongside the dedication from the Goodwood and Markel teams to deliver an outstanding experience for all, this team effort makes this event one to watch each year, and is a privilege for Markel to be involved with.”
The Markel Magnolia Cup will take place on Ladies’ Day at the Qatar Goodwood Festival in 2025, which falls on Thursday 31st July. Applications for the race in 2025 have now closed and riders wishing to participate in 2026 can apply online at https://www.goodwood.com/horseracing/qatar-goodwood-festival/magnolia-cup/.
