Born: July 11, 1989
Biography:
Rachael Blackmore MBE, born on July 11, 1989, is an Irish jockey who has made history in the world of National Hunt racing. Her remarkable achievements and groundbreaking triumphs have solidified her place as one of the most influential figures in the sport. In 2021, Blackmore shattered barriers and became the first female jockey to win the prestigious Grand National in the race’s 182-year history. This groundbreaking victory not only showcased Blackmore’s exceptional skills and determination but also marked a pivotal moment of progress and inclusivity in horse racing.
Blackmore’s journey began on a dairy farm in Killenaule, County Tipperary, Ireland, where she was raised by her parents, Eimir and Charles. From a young age, she developed a deep love for horses and started riding ponies when she was just two years old. Growing up, Blackmore actively participated in pony club meetings, hunting, eventing, and pony racing, honing her riding skills and showcasing her passion for equestrian sports.
Driven by her unwavering dedication and her desire to pursue a career in the racing industry, Blackmore embarked on a journey to expand her knowledge. She pursued a degree in equine science at the University of Limerick, all while riding out and competing as an amateur jockey. This educational background provided her with a strong foundation in understanding the intricacies of horses and racing, setting her on the path to success.
Blackmore’s career as a professional jockey began to flourish when she rode her first winner as an amateur jockey on February 10, 2011. Mounted on Stowaway Pearl and trained by Shark Hanlon, she emerged victorious in the Tipperary Ladies’ Handicap Hurdle at Thurles. This triumph marked the beginning of an extraordinary career that would redefine the possibilities for women in the racing world.
In March 2015, Blackmore made the pivotal decision to turn professional, equipped with her experience as an amateur rider and eleven point-to-point wins. Her first win as a professional came on September 3, 2015, riding Most Honourable, trained by Hanlon, at Clonmel. From that moment on, Blackmore’s rise to prominence was unstoppable, and her achievements continued to make headlines.
In 2017, Blackmore made history once again by becoming the first woman to win the conditional riders’ championship in Ireland. This groundbreaking triumph solidified her status as a formidable force in the racing world and shattered yet another glass ceiling for women in the sport.
The year 2018 marked Blackmore’s first foray into the illustrious Grand National, riding Alpha des Obeaux, trained by Mouse Morris. Although luck was not on her side that day, this experience served as a stepping stone towards future successes. Her breakthrough at the Cheltenham Festival arrived in 2019 when she secured her first victory, riding A Plus Tard in the Chase Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase. Additionally, Blackmore celebrated her first Grade 1 victory that same year with Minella Indo in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle, both horses trained by the esteemed Henry de Bromhead, who had become Blackmore’s trainer.
The 2019 Grand National showcased Blackmore’s extraordinary talent as she finished in the top ten aboard Valseur Lido, trained by de Bromhead and carrying odds of 66/1. This achievement further cemented her status as a force to be reckoned with on both national and international racing stages.
Blackmore’s skills were not confined to the shores of Great Britain. In April 2019, she triumphed in her first Grade 1 race in Ireland when she guided Honeysuckle to victory in the Mares Novice Hurdle Championship Final at Fairyhouse. This win highlighted Blackmore’s exceptional talent, and she finished the season with an impressive record of 90 winners.
Continuing her victorious streak, Blackmore secured another Cheltenham Festival win in 2020, riding Honeysuckle to victory in the Close Brothers Mares’ Hurdle. Her consistent performances solidified her position at the forefront of the racing world, as she finished third in the Irish jump racing championship that season.
The year 2021 marked a historic milestone in Blackmore’s career. At the Cheltenham Festival, she achieved two remarkable firsts. Blackmore became the first female jockey to partner a winner of the Champion Hurdle, a prestigious Grade 1 race, with her victory aboard Honeysuckle. Additionally, she sealed her place in the annals of horse racing history by becoming the first woman to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup, riding Minella Indo to a resounding victory.
Blackmore’s extraordinary achievements did not go unnoticed. In 2021, she was rightfully honored and named the RTÉ Sports Person of the Year and the BBC World Sport Star of the Year. These accolades reflected not only her remarkable talent and determination but also the groundbreaking impact she has had on the sport.
Across industries and sports, Blackmore’s contributions and achievements have transcended boundaries, resonating far beyond horse racing. Her sheer determination, exemplary work ethic, and unwavering spirit have paved the way for future generations of female jockeys, inspiring countless young women to embrace their passions, break barriers, and pursue their dreams.
Awards:
– 2021 RTÉ Sports Person of the Year
– 2021 BBC World Sport Star of the Year.