His Grace the tenth Duke of Richmond gave my father the job of running his beloved racecourse, Goodwood, when I was four. Memories of my childhood are framed by the sweep of Goodwood estate. I may have learned to walk on Trundle Hill. I certainly learned to drive on the legendary motor-racing circuit — which may explain the points on my licence.
Goodwood Racecourse dates from 1802 when the third Duke — grandson of Charles II — crafted a track in the unorthodox setting of the South Downs. Its location gives us one of the world’s most stunning sporting spectacles: Glorious Goodwood, the meeting run at the West Sussex course over five days at the end of July.
Guests of the Richmond family historically came to Goodwood for their summer holidays, a tradition that continues today. Racegoers stay locally with friends and family — racing one day, going to the seaside the next, and dining in the excellent local pubs (the Richmond Arms is a must).
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