‘Ladies’ Day was the start of my love affair with Goodwood’
The 2023 Goodwood racing season is upon us and I, for one, can’t wait. This isn’t how it always was. As a teen and young adult I saw Goodwood as a place that wasn’t for me. It appeared expensive to buy tickets to go, it appeared expensive to be there, and I wasn’t the sort of person that would feel comfortable being there.
I would admire the different styles of dresses, hats and fascinators, the range of shoes and bags to complete the outfits, the sharp suits and the glamour of the races, feeling envious I wasn’t among the buzz.
Then everything changed.
Thirteen years ago I got to go to Ladies’ Day at Glorious Goodwood, thanks to winning tickets. What came with being able to attend was the realisation that
Goodwood isn’t for a certain type of person. It wasn’t for those who were in a particular ‘club’. Goodwood horse racing is for everyone and anyone. Once across the threshold I was encompassed in the indescribable feeling that Goodwood possesses. While there I came across people from all walks of life, who were of varying ages, from the full range of societal classes. That was the start of my love affair with Goodwood horse racing.
As a parent, something that I now truly value is the inclusion of children and families at Goodwood Racecourse. My daughter is able to join us at the racing fixtures, with free tickets as she’s under 18. With her being a ball of energy, the playground in the Lennox Enclosure helps her to run off some of that energy, and we get to enjoy the rather relaxed atmosphere the Lennox enclosure brings, along with our carefully packed picnic or the tasty offerings from Goodwood. The family race days, with families like mine being the focus, are particular highlights each year.
I will say though, as someone who doesn’t get to attend red carpet premieres or glitzy functions on the regular, I love that Goodwood races give me the opportunity to get dressed up and feel glamorous. I get to choose a beautiful dress, intricately assembled fascinator, classy shoes, with my hair and make up done and feel like a million dollars.
All while soaking up the electric atmosphere, enjoying the thrill of willing my chosen horse on to win and celebrating those wins with friends, family and strangers alike. Sounds like an idyllic way to spend a day locally, right? Get your V2 Voucher now on our website and you can do just that with Goodwood’s Royal Upgrade for just £12. I’ll see you there!