Paul Maze was born in Le Havre, Normandy in 1887 and learnt the art of painting at the feet of some of the greatest impressionist artists of the age, such as Monet, Renoir, Pissarro and Raoul Dufy, whose influence can especially be seen in this picture of Goodwood Racecourse.

Maze was a highly decorated soldier in the Great War, during which time he met Winston Churchill, who became a lifelong friend due to their shared interest in painting. Maze loved England and especially the English season and enjoyed painting scenes of rowing at Henley, sailing during Cowes Week, polo at Cowdray and many other events, including racing at Glorious Goodwood. He lived nearby in Treyford and the Sussex light and landscape perfectly suited his fluent, vibrant, en plein air style. He was fascinated with colour and movement, both of which can be seen in this depiction of Goodwood Races, capturing the pre-race excitement, as the runners and riders parade in the ring before heading out to the start.