Gemma Owen, a dressage champion and former 'Love Island' contestant, made a notable appearance with her father, retired professional footballer Michael Owen, at the Qatar Goodwood Festival on Monday. The event marked the beginning of the five-day racing festival, known as Glorious Goodwood.
Owen, 23, is preparing to compete in the Markel Magnolia Cup on Ladies Day, a race exclusively for women that supports charities focused on women and children. This marks her debut in a horse racing event, despite her background as an international dressage rider.
"Believe it or not, I had never sat on a racehorse until a couple of months ago and the training so far has been humbling to say the least," Owen stated. She described her experience at Manor House Stables, founded by her father in 2006, as an "incredible experience," observing the operations of a racing yard and practicing on the gallops.
She acknowledged the challenge, noting it is "an even bigger challenge than I initially expected" but expressed excitement about participating in the prestigious fundraising event. Michael Owen, who previously played for clubs including Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester United, established Manor House Stables on a converted arable farm, developing it into a thoroughbred racing facility.
For the festival's opening day, Gemma Owen opted for a chic navy ensemble, featuring a button-up waistcoat and a matching pleated skirt, complemented by a hat and sunglasses. Her father appeared in a blue suit jacket with a pink shirt and tie. The Owen family has attended the festival in previous years.
The Qatar Goodwood Festival is considered a highlight of the British flat racing season. Owen's participation in the Markel Magnolia Cup is scheduled for Wednesday.