The Markel Magnolia Cup raises a record £317,351 in support of The Brilliant Breakfast for The Prince’s Trust

The prestigious 2022 Markel Magnolia Cup has raised a phenomenal £317,351 for the Brilliant Breakfast, an event run in aid of The Prince’s Trust.

This marks a new fundraising milestone for the annual charity race conceived over a decade ago, which takes place on Ladies’ Day at the Qatar Goodwood Festival. It was Ashleigh Wicheard and mount Dark Shot, trained by Scott Dixon who were victorious, having got off to a flying start. The 36-year-old is passionate about diversity and hopes to inspire other black women to participate in the sport. Wicheard took part in the race alongside: Annabel Neasham, Fiona Litchfield, Hayley Edgar, Janie Dear, Kate French, Kim Parker, Lucy Robinson, Olivia Kimber, O’Meara Rusike  Rosie Brandreth-Poynter, and Sally Goldsmith.

This year’s total means the race has raised over £ 2.1 million for charitable causes since its inception. Goodwood is 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 Roksanda Ilinčić, who designed the jockey silks.

The charitable beneficiary, The Brilliant Breakfast, is a nationwide fundraising event run annually for a week in October. It brings together friends, family, and colleagues over breakfast to raise money for young women on The Prince’s Trust programmes across the UK. The money raised will help women aged 11-30 who face disadvantage and adversity build their futures through employment, education, and training.

Annoushka Ducas, MBE, The Brilliant Breakfast Founder, commented: “It was an honour to partner with Goodwood Racecourse for their renowned charity event, the Markel Magnolia Cup. We’re thrilled that this partnership has raised a record-breaking £317,351 to support young women at a time when this could not be more needed or relevant – a fantastic kick-start to this year’s fundraising, which officially takes place in October.

“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.”

Simon Wilson, president of Markel International commented: “We are so proud to be a part of the Magnolia Cup. The support that the Brilliant Breakfast gives 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 fundraising work and that of The Prince’s Trust can continue.”

It has been confirmed that the Markel Magnolia Cup will once again take place on Ladies’ Day at the Qatar Goodwood Festival in 2023, which falls on Thursday, 3 August. Riders wishing to participate in 2023 renewal can apply online at goodwood.com/horseracing/qatar-goodwood-festival/magnolia-cup/ . All applications must be received by 1 October to be considered.