**Gabby Logan Shares Nerves and Pride as Daughter Lois Makes Showjumping Debut at Glorious Goodwood**
British television presenter Gabby Logan admitted to experiencing intense nerves as she watched her daughter Lois compete at the prestigious Goodwood Festival, marking a special milestone for the young equestrian. The event, famously dubbed ‘Glorious Goodwood’, was marked by excitement, charitable spirit and, at times, dramatic British weather.
Lois Logan, 20, took to the track at the Markel Magnolia Cup, a renowned charity race, where she was cheered on by her family, including father Kenny Logan, the former Scotland rugby international. Her debut as a jockey proved both thrilling and nerve-wracking for those watching, particularly her mother, who described the nail-biting moments as her “heart was racing far more than hers [Lois’s]”.
The Magnolia Cup, held annually during the five-day Goodwood Festival in Chichester, attracts riders from varied backgrounds such as sport, business, and the media, all united for a charitable cause. This year, proceeds supported the King’s Trust International, an organisation established to tackle pressing issues of youth unemployment around the globe.
Reflecting on her maiden race, Lois expressed her exhilaration and pride in how she performed against tough competition. “It was over so quickly and such a thrill. The horse was incredible and put up such a fight against strong opposition. We finished in midfield, which was not a bad result. I had to push from the third furlong because they set off so quickly. I’ve got more of an edge for winning now and am not so scared of speed. It was really good fun,” she commented.
Gabby Logan also highlighted the commitment Lois poured into preparing for the event, revealing that her daughter dedicated months of pre-dawn starts and intense physical training to hone her skills. “It’s harder to watch than rugby, which is so long – and you have so many more chances to make an impact. It is over so quick and like being a sprinter,” Gabby remarked, reflecting on the very different pressures parents face on the sidelines.
Throughout her preparation, Lois has been training regularly at Andrew Balding’s famed stables in Kingsclere, a notable shift from her experience as a showjumper. Her mother noted how Lois adapted seamlessly to the demands of racing, crediting her time at Kingsclere for giving her a newfound confidence and skill set that now benefits her showjumping as well.
The day was not without its share of classic British summertime weather. A heavy downpour sent festival goers scurrying for cover, but it did little to dampen the celebratory atmosphere as Lois and her fellow competitors braved the elements for a worthy cause.
Ultimately, the race was won by London-based Sophie Forsyth, but for Gabby, Kenny, and the rest of the Logan family, Lois’s performance was a win in itself. Gabby, set to return to screens soon as a host of the new Match of the Day series alongside Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates, shared with The Telegraph how watching her daughter proved to be a far more tense experience than anything she’s faced on the sports broadcast front, joking that her heart rate peaked at 160 beats per minute.
The family’s support and pride were evident throughout the event, with Gabby confirming that Lois is keen to return to Kingsclere and continue riding out for Andrew Balding when opportunities arise. This commitment to the sport, combined with Lois’s competitive spirit, suggests that this may just be the beginning of her journey on the turf.
Beyond a proud family milestone, Lois’s debut at the Magnolia Cup encapsulated the unifying power of sport and charity. While she may not have taken first place this time, the experience has clearly ignited a passion for racing—and demonstrated that for families like the Logans, it’s not just about where you finish, but how you take the ride.