Legendary jockey Rachael Blackmore announces shock retirement after glittering 16-year career

LEGENDARY jumps jockey Rachael Blackmore has announced her retirement from the saddle.

The Grand National-winning rider announced on her social media that she was bringing her glittering 16-year career to an end.

Rachael Blackmore has announced her retirement from racingSportsfile

She became the first female jockey to win the Grand National at Aintree in 2021 when riding Minella Times home at Aintree for long-time boss Henry De Bromhead.

Blackmore, 34, also became the first female to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup on A Plus Tard in 2022, one of 18 winners at the Cheltenham Festival.

Blackmore said: “My days of being a jockey have come to an end.

“I feel the time is right. I’m sad but I’m also incredibly grateful for what my life has been for the past 16 years.

“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.”

More to follow…