Vogue Williams made her jockey debut by competing in The Magnolia Cup at Goodwood Racecourse today.
The TV presenter has been training for the prestigious charity race for the last four months in partnership with Ladbrokes.
The 33-year-old has had to train intensely, sometimes up to four times a week, and competed against 11 other riders in the race.
Unfortunately Vogue didn’t win this time, but in incredible scenes this afternoon – Khadijah Mellah, who became the first rider to race in a hijab in Britain, won the charity race.
What a story! Peckham teenager Khadijah Mellah, from @EbonyHorseClub and the first Briton to race in a hijab, lands a memorable #MagnoliaCup at @Goodwood_Races ???? @WellbeingofWmen pic.twitter.com/kdInXxij6d
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) August 1, 2019
Khadijah Mellah had not sat on a racehorse before April this year. She’s now won the big charity race at @Goodwood_Races! #MagnoliaCup #QGF #GloriousGoodwood pic.twitter.com/22l9XiZ2qs
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) August 1, 2019
Although she didn’t win, Vogue has had an incredible time training to become a jockey.
Speaking ahead of the big day, Vogue said: “When Ladbrokes approached me with the opportunity to train and ride in the Magnolia Cup, I jumped at the opportunity. It’s been a thrilling and challenging four months.”
“I have worked hard with Jim Boyle and can’t thank him enough for all his advice and support and I’m also indebted to Richard Fahey for providing me with the horse and some great riding out experience in recent weeks too.”
“This has been the most amazing experience. I feel like I’m ready to do myself justice and I can’t wait for the race and raising money for a worthy cause.”
