Breaking News: Champion Jockey Rachael Blackmore Retires After Historic Career; Bowed Out With Victory at Cork, Becoming First Female Grand National Winner in 2021
In a shocking turn of events, trailblazing jockey Rachael Blackmore has announced her retirement from horse racing, bringing an end to a glittering career that saw her become the first female jockey to win the Grand National and score multiple victories at the Cheltenham Festival. Blackmore, 35, made the announcement after her final ride aboard Ma Belle Etoile, trained by her longtime ally Henry de Bromhead, resulted in victory at Cork racecourse on Saturday, marking a fitting conclusion to her illustrious riding career.
The Irish jockey, who rode her first winner as a professional in 2015, leaves behind an unparalleled legacy in the sport. In 2021, she created history when she steered Minella Times to victory in the world’s most famous steeplechase, the Aintree Grand National, becoming the first woman to achieve this feat in its 182-year history. The same year, she also made history at the Cheltenham Festival by becoming the first female jockey to win the Champion Hurdle aboard Honeysuckle. The following year, she added another first to her name by winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup with A Plus Tard.
"I just feel so lucky to have been legged up on the horses I have, and to have experienced success I never even dreamt could be possible," Blackmore said in a social media statement, expressing her gratitude for her supporters, including her parents, former trainer Aidan Kennedy, and fellow jockeys and trainers from her career. Her decision to retire with immediate effect means that her final career win came aboard Ma Belle Etoile at Cork, capping off a remarkable career that has inspired countless fans and broken numerous barriers for female jockeys in the sport.
Breaking News: Legendary Jockey Rachael Blackmore Retires from Horse Racing
In a surprise announcement that has shaken the equestrian world, trailblazing jockey Rachael Blackmore has decided to retire from horse racing. The 35-year-old Irish rider won an extraordinary number of titles during her illustrious career, including the prestigious Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup, making her a true pioneer for women in the sport.
Blackmore’s Remarkable Career
Blackmore’s final ride was a victorious one, securing the win aboard Ma Belle Etoile at Cork on Saturday, her last meeting before retiring. She announced her decision via social media, expressing that despite feeling sad, she was also “incredibly grateful” for her lifetime in racing.
Her CV is envied by many. She became the first female jockey to win the Grand National in 2021, riding Minella Times to glory. The following year, she made history again by winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup aboard A Plus Tard, proving that Blackmore wasn’t just breaking barriers, she was shattering them.
Blackmore also became the first female jockey to win the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle in 2021, riding Honeysuckle to victory.
Tributes Pour In from the Horse Racing World
Tributes have been flooding in for Blackmore, with many heralding her as an inspiration. skepticism and struggle she faced throughout her career. Your passion and dedication to the sport have paved the way for future female jockeys, and for that, we are forever grateful.
Blackmore was quick to acknowledge the many people who supported her throughout her career, including trainers, owners, and team staff. Her first ride in a point-to-point was under Aidan Kennedy, and she spent time riding for Arthur Moore and Pat Doyle.
What’s Next for Rachael Blackmore?
Blackmore hasn’t ruled out a future in the sport, expressing interest in possible roles behind the scenes. She told fans, “As much as I’ll miss the buzz and thrill of race riding, I’m really excited about what comes next.”
FAQs
- When did Rachael Blackmore start her professional career?
Blackmore rode her first winner as a professional in 2015.
- What was her final career success?
Her final victory was aboard Ma Belle Etoile at Cork on Saturday, trained by her long-time ally, Henry de Bromhead.
As we bid farewell to one of the sport’s greatest, we can’t help but wonder, what will the future hold for women in horse racing? Will there be more trailblazers like Rachel Blackmore? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore more of our latest sports news and subscribe to our newsletter for more breaking stories like this!