A group of five jockeys heading to the Glorious Goodwood event had a harrowing experience when their plane had to make an emergency landing due to engine trouble. Rowan Scott, Callum Rodriguez, PJ McDonald, Tom Eaves, and Jack Garritty were on board the light aircraft travelling from Yorkshire to West Sussex but had to turn back, missing their races on day four of the prestigious event.
Scott, scheduled for two rides at Goodwood, recounted the tense moments when one of the plane’s engines failed mid-flight, causing panic among the passengers. The pilot skillfully managed to bring the aircraft back to Bagby Airfield, but not without another scare when something from the engine hit the plane during descent.
Despite the ordeal, all passengers were safe, with Scott expressing gratitude for the pilot’s composure in handling the situation. The jockeys often opt for flights from the north to Goodwood due to the long distance by road, although Scott admitted he might not be eager to repeat the experience anytime soon.
Scott’s agent, Niall Hannity, commended the pilot’s expertise in safely landing the plane back at Bagby, reassuring that although the incident was unsettling, the priority was the jockeys’ well-being. Scott, having his first and last private plane experience, communicated with his racing connections to inform them of the unforeseen circumstances.
In light of this event, the importance of safety and swift actions in aviation emergencies was underscored, highlighting the risks associated with air travel.
