Racing in the Goodwood Magnolia Cup in aid of My Sisters' House Women's Centre
Harriet Hemmings is raising money for My Sisters' House
Story
Hi, my name is Harriet
I am excited to have been selected as one of 12 jockeys to race in this year's Goodwood Magnolia Cup on Thursday 1st August 2024.
My interest in the opportunity initially started from seeing Olivia Kennedy in the background of an instagram post who became part of the race through her connection with Cool Ridings, a community of equestrians from a range of backgrounds, committed to celebrating and supporting diversity within equestrian sport. After further research, I learnt of the great work of the Magnolia Cup and its impact in promoting change in the racing world, such as by Khadijah Mellah being the first hijab wearing jockey to win in the UK. I felt this was a movement that I wished to be part of and started writing my application straight away!
Not only this, but I have an absolute need for speed and what better way to fulfill that than travelling at 40mph on an unpredictable 1000 pound animal.
The training started in October 2023 which has involved hours and hours in the gym, working towards being successful in my three fitness tests. These entail savage exercises including 4 minute planks, push up holds, a lot of squatting including on wobble cushions and spinning legs as fast as you can. The commitment also extends to early mornings travelling an hour each way to Newmarket to ride out, including in the winter when it was dark, cold and the car was iced over, which we all know isn't my strong point! These rides have also not always involved staying in the saddle but I have come so far in my riding ability over the last six months.
The main and important reason we are all coming together for this race however is to fundraise for My Sisters' House, a charity who supports women to improve their welfare and wellbeing (such as by providing counselling, finance and housing advice, emergency toiletries etc.). They aim to reduce risk of domestic abuse but also support recovery by helping the women reach their goals for future employment, education or training.
I would be grateful for any donation small or big to help such an amazing cause. The charity is still relatively small, previously nearly having to shut down, so each donation will have a huge impact on the work they do.
Thank you so much and hope I do everyone proud!