Summary
Rachael Blackmore, a celebrated jockey from Ireland, has retired at age 35. She was the first female jockey to win the Grand National and achieved several significant victories during her career, breaking new ground for women in horse racing.
Key Facts
- Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey to win the Grand National in 2021 riding Minella Times.
- She won the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2021 and later became the leading rider at the Cheltenham Festival.
- Blackmore secured victory in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2022 with a horse named A Plus Tard.
- She grew up in County Tipperary, Ireland, and initially studied to become a vet.
- Blackmore began her professional career in horse racing in 2015 after several years as an amateur.
- Her success was closely linked to her partnership with trainer Henry de Bromhead.
- Rachael Blackmore overcame injuries and falls, highlighting her strength and resilience.
- Although she hasn't announced her reasons for retiring, other female jockeys have retired at similar ages to start families.
