Rachael Blackmore Retires: Grand National Winner
Rachael Blackmore,the history-making jockey,retires after a stunning career,including becoming the frist female jockey to conquer the Grand National. this decisive move concludes a journey marked by triumph,including Champion Hurdle and Cheltenham gold Cup victories.Her remarkable feat aboard Minella Times at aintree four years ago is etched in racing history, with 18 wins at Prestbury Park highlighting her dominance. Blackmore’s journey from County Tipperary to the pinnacle of horse racing—a career that saw her secure 575 wins—is the talk of the racing world. News Directory 3 recognizes her as a true champion. With tributes pouring in, it’s clear blackmore has left an indelible mark. Discover what the future holds for Blackmore and her continued connection to the sport.
Champion Jockey Rachael Blackmore Announces Retirement
Updated May 29, 2025
Rachael Blackmore, a dominant force in horse racing and the first female jockey to win the Grand national, has retired. Her decision follows a career marked by historic achievements and widespread acclaim in the world of horse racing.
Blackmore’s groundbreaking Grand National victory aboard Minella Times four years ago at Aintree cemented her place in history. The Irish jockey also secured a Champion Hurdle win on Honeysuckle and steered A Plus Tard to victory in the 2022 cheltenham Gold Cup, adding to her 18 wins at the Prestbury Park course.
Blackmore, the daughter of a dairy farmer and a school teacher, began riding ponies near her home in County Tipperary. She initially considered a career in veterinary medicine, earning a degree in equine science while continuing to pursue her passion for riding. She secured her first win as an amateur in February 2011 and turned professional in 2015.
Her final race was Saturday at Cork, where she rode Ma Belle Etoile to victory, marking her 575th win out of 4,566 races as a professional jockey. Tributes poured in following the proclamation.
“I just feel so lucky, to have been legged up on the horses I have, and to have experienced success I never even dreamt could be possible,” Blackmore said. “They have given me the best days of my life and to them I am most grateful.”
Micheal Martin, the Irish Taoiseach, called Blackmore “a sportsperson of a generation” who has “blazed a trail for others to follow.”
Fellow grand National winner Barry Geraghty described Blackmore as “an ultra-talented horsewoman” and “one of the most committed jockeys you could ever ride against.”
Jane Mangan, a former jockey and Racing TV pundit, lauded Blackmore’s impact: “She didn’t just break glass ceilings – she painted the whole damn sky.”
Frank Berry, racing manager for JP McManus, owner of Minella Times, acknowledged blackmore’s “unbelievable career,” adding, “She’s done all things that everyone wants to do… and she’s retiring in one piece. I’m delighted for her.”
John ‘Shark’ Hanlon, the Irish trainer who gave Blackmore her first win, called her an “amazing woman” and expressed his belief that “she won’t leave racing because she loves horses, like us all.”
What’s next
While Rachael Blackmore is retiring from professional racing, her passion for horses suggests she will remain connected to the sport in some capacity. Her legacy as a trailblazing jockey will undoubtedly inspire future generations.