LONDON โ Rachael Blackmore gained international recognition as the first woman to win the Grand National when she raced Minella Times to victory at Aintree in 2021. On Monday, she announced her sudden retirement from horse racing.
At 35 years old, Blackmore has achieved remarkable milestones in her career. Following her historic Grand National win, she broke further barriers by becoming the first female jockey to secure a win at the Cheltenham Gold Cup, riding A Plus Tard. This triumph solidified her reputation as a groundbreaking and accomplished rider.
By winning the Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in 2024, Blackmore joined an elite group of jockeys who have triumphed in all championship events at this distinguished meeting throughout their careers. Her achievements stand out not only among female jockeys but in the industry as a whole.
Blackmore, who started her professional racing career in 2015, closes this chapter with an impressive 18 Cheltenham Festival victories under her belt. In her farewell statement, she reflected on the end of her journey as a jockey with mixed emotions.
โMy racing career has reached its end,โ she expressed. โWhile thereโs sadness, thereโs also immense gratitude for the 16 years Iโve spent living my dream. Looking back, it feels unreal that Iโve been given opportunities I never imagined possible.โ
Blackmore acknowledged the uncertainty of stepping away from the sport, joking about her new identity: โWho even am I now!โ She remains thankful for being in the right place at the right time, with the right people, and most importantly, on the right horses, as these factors were crucial to her success.
Her last professional win came aboard Ma Belle Etoile last Saturday, a horse trained by Henry de Bromhead, who has been a longstanding supporter and collaborator throughout her career.