Kitty Trice: what I learned training to become a jockey for the Magnolia Cup

The Magnolia Cup at Glorious Goodwood was a challenge from beginning to end for the 12 riders taking part. Racing Post reporter Kitty Trice discusses what she learned in the build-up, during the race and the aftermath.

The mental challenge of raceday

From both a physical and mental perspective the build-up to – and competing in – the Magnolia Cup has been one of the hardest challenges I have faced. Full-time jockeys have to overcome their nerves and battle outside pressures, just like the Magnolia Cup team, and that is a huge part as to why race-riding is so challenging.

It would be safe to say I felt sick – that's how anxious I was. It was probably the equivalent of taking my A-level exams, or any exam for that matter. It was curious how quickly time flew by, one minute it was 10.30 and we were weighing in, and the next it was 20 minutes until the race itself.