As the 2024 Cheltenham Festival looms on the horizon, horse racing enthusiasts prepare for a week of unparalleled excitement.
Over four days, an estimated 260,000 spectators will converge on the iconic racecourse to witness 28 races featuring the finest horses, jockeys, and trainers. The global sporting spotlight will illuminate the world of horse racing, captivating millions of fans with the emotional rollercoaster of triumphs and defeats.
Behind the Scenes: Exploring the Lives of Cheltenham Jockeys’ WAGs
While the spotlight often shines on the jockeys and their achievements, Mail Sport takes a unique glimpse into the lives of the Women and Girlfriends (WAGs) who stand steadfastly behind these racing stars.
In this exclusive feature, we delve into the personal lives of some of the most celebrated jockeys, highlighting the role their partners play in their careers.
1. Paul Townend – Anna Paoletti: Equine Romance Beyond the Racetrack
Renowned jockey Paul Townend, boasting 28 Cheltenham Festival victories, is set to add to his tally with the support of Italian girlfriend Anna Paoletti. Their unique connection extends beyond mere companionship, with Paoletti serving as an Equine Sport Therapist.
The couple, based in Kilkenny, shares a love for horses, complemented by Paoletti’s eco-friendly Italian cosmetics venture.
2. Mark Walsh – Katie Young: The Racing Power Couple
Mark Walsh, a multiple Cheltenham Festival winner, finds his partner, Katie Young, deeply embedded in the world of racing.
As a trainer for Gordon Elliott Racing, Young has contributed to the success of two-time Grand National and five-time Cheltenham winner Tiger Roll.
Together, they form the ‘Romeo and Juliet’ of horse racing, their lives intricately woven into the fabric of the sport.
3. Keith Donoghue – Sarah Dempsey: Low-Key Love Amidst High-Profile Racing
Irish jockey Keith Donoghue, heading into Cheltenham with optimism, enjoys a seemingly low-key relationship with girlfriend Sarah Dempsey.
Despite maintaining privacy, glimpses of their adventures, including skiing in the French Alps and coastal escapades in Villefranche-sur-Mer, offer a peek into their shared experiences.
4. Sean Bowen – Harriett Matthews: A Jet-Setting Love Affair
Welsh jockey Sean Bowen and girlfriend Harriett Matthews paint a picture of an adventurous relationship, jet-setting around the globe during Bowen’s breaks from racing.
With Matthews working for Paul Nicholls Racing, the couple, known for their active lifestyle, owns a sausage dog named Dottie.
Bowen’s Cheltenham prospects add an intriguing layer to their story.
5. Nico de Boinville – Serena de Boinville (Cookson): Noble Ties and Equestrian Legacy
Jockey Nico de Boinville enters the Cheltenham scene with noble connections, married into the family of the late Lord and Lady Hemphill.
His wife, Serena (Cookson), oversees the Tulira Connemara Pony Stud, continuing her grandmother’s equestrian legacy. The couple, married since 2018, brings a touch of aristocracy to the racing world.
6. Rachael Blackmore – Brian Hayes: Racing Royalty in Love
Rachael Blackmore, a racing sensation, shares her life with fellow jockey Brian Hayes. While the term ‘WAG’ may not strictly apply, given Blackmore’s professional stature, their relationship intertwines with the world of racing.
Both residing with another jockey, Patrick Mullins, Blackmore provides insights into their ‘normal’ house in Leighlinbridge, emphasizing their shared love beyond the racetracks.
Conclusion: A Blend of Love, Adventure, and Racing Excellence
These glimpses into the lives of jockeys’ partners showcase a fascinating intersection of love, adventure, and the high-stakes world of horse racing.
As Cheltenham Festival approaches, the stories behind the jockeys promise to add an extra layer of intrigue to this celebrated event on the British sporting calendar.**
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