Taking part in the Markel Magnolia Cup 2026 is both an incredible privilege and a huge personal challenge. This charity means a great deal to me because it supports something I have been lucky enough to benefit from throughout my own life: education, opportunity, and encouragement. I am very aware that many girls around the world are not born into the same privilege or given the same chances. For too many, access to education is limited by poverty, conflict, discrimination or geography. Education Above All works to change that, helping children — and especially girls — access the education they need to shape their own futures.

I have ridden horses for much of my life, but race-riding is a completely different discipline. The fitness, strength, technical skill and courage required are immense. Training for this alongside my job as a surgeon has meant very early mornings, long days, aching muscles, and a lot of moments where I have wondered quite what I have signed myself up for.

But that is also why this challenge feels worthwhile. Any difficulty I have had fitting training around a demanding job is temporary. The barriers faced by many girls trying to access education are much greater, and far less easily overcome.

I would be incredibly grateful for any donation, large or small, to support Education Above All and help create opportunities for children who deserve the chance to learn, grow and fulfil their potential.

The 2026 Markel Magnolia Cup will raise vital funds to support girls’ empowerment around the world through education and economic opportunity.

When a girl is given the chance to learn, she gains the power to shape her own future, and to lift her family and community with her.

Through the work of Education Above All Foundation, we support girls by:

Providing access to education for out of school children

Expanding access to finance for young female entrepreneurs

Providing skills training for decent jobs and livelihoods

Funds raised in the UK by Educate A Child International (charity number 1160869).