The 2021 Magnolia Cup presented by Markel has raised a record £230,000 for UK charity Smart Works

It has been revealed that this year’s Magnolia Cup has raised a staggering £230,000 for UK charity Smart Works. Smart Works assists unemployed women ahead of a job interview providing quality clothing and the tools needed to help them get a job. This year saw the first dead heat since the race’s inception between Thea Gosden-Hood and Candida Crawford with the judge unable to split the pair. 

The money raised marks a new fundraising milestone for the annual charity race held on Ladies’ Day at the Qatar Goodwood Festival in July. Since its inception the race has now raised over £1.8 million for charitable causes. It has been confirmed that the eleventh running of the race will once again take place on Ladies’ Day next year on Thursday 28 July. 

Kate Stephens, CEO of Smart Works, said: “It was an honour to partner with Goodwood Racecourse for their renowned charity event, the Magnolia Cup presented by Markel. We’re thrilled that this partnership has raised a record-breaking £230,000 to support unemployed women at a time when this could not be more needed or relevant. 

“We are truly grateful to Goodwood, The Duke and Duchess of Richmond, and the sponsors, trainers, and owners who made this possible. Not to mention the jockeys whose dedication, resilience, and determination were inspirational to all of us. This incredible result will help us help over 5,000 women this year, transforming the lives of women and the families they support. Thank you from everyone in the Smart Works community.”

Simon Wilson, president of Markel International commented: “We are so proud to be a part of the Magnolia Cup presented by Markel. The support that Smart Works give to women across the UK is critical. We are thrilled that we have been able to play a part in providing important funds so their work can continue.”