Two leading ladies call it a day on racing careers

TWO of Britain’s leading female jockeys have retired on a high, each winning their final race at Punchestown this weekend.

Katie Walsh announced her retirement on Friday evening

(27 April) following a win on the Willie Mullins-trained Anstey.

Her sister-in-law Nina Carberry followed suit the next day after victory on Josies Orders, trained by Enda Bolger.

Nina, who has seven Cheltenham Festival wins under her belt, as well as the 2011 Irish Grand National, said neither rider knew of the other’s plans in advance of the announcements.

“Katie and I were walking the course on Tuesday and I told her this would be my last Punchestown,” she said. “She didn’t know I was retiring and I didn’t know she was — it was just our time. We gave ourselves a hug and a little cry.

“It was really sweet to finish on Josies Orders. Enda has been a massive supporter and I wouldn’t have had all the Cheltenham winners without him and J P [McManus].

“I’m sad and happy. Sad I’m finished but happy I’ve got a new career ahead of me.”

Nina will continue riding out, and buy and sell horses.

Katie became the highestplaced female Grand National finisher in 2012 when she came third on Seabass. Her achievements also include three Cheltenham Festival wins and the 2015 Irish Grand National.

“It’s very emotional and means an enormous amount to finish here because Punchestown is so important to me; I’ve been coming ever since I was a kid,” she said.

“I wanted to go out on a win. I’ve had a marvellous career with unbelievable memories.”

Jockey Robbie Power paid tribute to both, adding: “The two best female riders of all time have gone the same week.”