Rachael Blackmore’s triumph at Cheltenham on Thursday wasn’t just another career milestone—it was a deeply personal moment.
Despite the thrill of winning, the Irish jockey had a heavy heart as she dedicated her victory to her late cousin, Robert Blackmore, whose funeral she was unable to attend the same day.
A Surprise Win Against the Odds
Riding Air Of Entitlement, a 16/1 outsider, Blackmore defied expectations in the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle.
The race was nothing short of spectacular, with Air Of Entitlement narrowly beating Sixandahalf in a dramatic finish.
It was a moment of sheer determination and skill, marking Blackmore’s first win of the 2024 Cheltenham Festival and the 17th of her career at the prestigious event.
An Emotional Dedication
While the victory was sweet, it carried an emotional weight for Blackmore.
In her post-race interview, she made it clear that this win was about more than just racing.
“I want to dedicate this to my cousin Robert Blackmore, who passed away at the weekend.
His funeral is today, and I couldn’t be there. This one is for him,” she shared.
Despite her grief, Blackmore remained focused and appreciative of the support around her, especially from trainer Henry de Bromhead and his team.
“We’ve had a quieter couple of days, but Henry does an incredible job with these horses. I’m very lucky to be riding for him,” she added.
A Trailblazing Career
Blackmore’s journey in horse racing has been nothing short of remarkable.
Her achievements have earned her significant recognition, including an honorary MBE and the title of BBC Sports Personality World Sport Star of the Year.
She made history in 2021 as the first female jockey to win the Grand National aboard Minella Times, solidifying her legacy in the sport.
Reflecting on her journey, she shared a sentiment from legendary owner JP McManus: “Some people are born luckier than others, and I definitely feel lucky to be riding here.”
Her gratitude extended to the talented horses she’s had the privilege to ride, giving special praise to Air Of Entitlement for her incredible performance.
Overcoming Setbacks
Blackmore’s return to form hasn’t been easy.
Last September, she suffered a serious neck injury that kept her sidelined until late December.
Since then, she’s faced challenges in securing wins, making this Cheltenham victory even more significant.
With her resilience and skill, what’s next for Rachael Blackmore? If her past accomplishments are any indication, she’s far from done.
The road ahead looks bright, and there’s no doubt she’ll continue breaking barriers in the racing world.