Blackmore becomes first woman to win Grand National
LONDON: Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey to win the Grand National on Saturday, coming home clear on Minella Times in the world’s most gruelling steeplechase which was first staged in 1839.
The 31-year-old Irishwoman added National glory to her history-making exploits at Cheltenham last month with an inch-perfect ride.
Blackmore’s victory came 44 years since Charlotte Brew became the first woman to tackle the National — Katie Walsh had gone closest with third on Seabass in 2012.
For trainer Henry de Bromhead, it also completed an incredible run, having become the first trainer to win the Champion Hurdle, Champion Chase and Gold Cup at Cheltenham.
Sadly for Blackmore and de Bromhead their extraordinary achievement was behind closed doors at Aintree with spectators barred due to coronavirus protocols.
Blackmore went into the lead two from home but was under pressure from Balko des Flos.
However, Minella Times was not stopping and passed the winning post with Blackmore standing up in the saddle and yelling. Balko des Flos was second and Any Second Now third.
“I don’t feel I am either a female, a male or even a human at the moment,” said Blackmore. “It is unbelievable.
“I don’t know what Henry does with the horses. He gave me such a spin out there.”
Blackmore had to come back down to earth as she had a ride in the last but admitted things were a blur.
“I don’t even know if I am Rachael Blackmore anymore!” she said.
“I never even thought about having a ride in the race let alone win it when I started out in 2011.
“I guess the message from my success is that anyone can dream.”
Blackmore’s success earned a warm tribute from Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin. “A truly amazing achievement again @rachaelblackmor — Ireland is so proud of you becoming the first woman to win the #GrandNational,” he tweeted.