Irish hunt for next female superstars

THE retirements of Katie Walsh and Nina Carberry have left a void in Irish racing, with few female jockeys lining up to replace them. Walsh, 33, announced she was quitting on Friday evening after riding a winner at Punchestown. Her sister-in-law Carberry, 33, followed suit with a career-ending win at the same meeting 24 hours later. The pair were both successful in the Irish Grand National and made their mark at Cheltenham. Carberry, who gave birth to daughter Rosie last year, will continue in the sport by riding out for Aidan O’Brien and trading horses. Walsh has also quickly established a fine reputation in bloodstock sales. But the number of female jump jockeys in Ireland remains low. Aside from Carberry and Walsh, only Rachael Blackmore and Lisa O’Neill rode 10-plus winners in 2017-18. They are now the standard bearers, especially Blackmore, 28, who enjoyed a superb Punchestown with three victories as she finished the season on 34 wins.