Retired racing legend Rachael Blackmore has revealed that she is pregnant with her first child, sharing the news of her upcoming arrival with fellow jockey Brian Hayes. The couple recently got married in a cozy ceremony in West Cork on January 5, after a decade-long relationship.
The 36-year-old announced the exciting news through her Instagram story, showcasing a photo of her Volvo car with a baby pram in the trunk, humorously noting the change in the car’s contents. Blackmore, who retired from horse racing last year following a successful career, made history as the first female jockey to win the Grand National and to be the leading jockey at Cheltenham.
Hailing from Tipperary, Blackmore amassed an impressive total of 575 wins during her professional racing tenure. Her retirement in May 2021 came after achieving remarkable feats, including triumphing with Minella Times at Aintree.
Her achievements at the Cheltenham Festival in 2021 were exceptional, with victories in major races, such as the Champion Hurdle, Cheltenham Gold Cup, Ryanair Chase, Queen Mother Champion Chase, and Stayers’ Hurdle. These successes earned her recognition, including the World Sports Star award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards.
Blackmore and Hayes, who have been close friends for more than ten years since meeting in Co Carlow, have a shared passion for horse racing. Despite their racing backgrounds, the couple seldom discusses the sport in their household. Blackmore acknowledged Hayes’ pivotal role in her career upon her retirement, emphasizing his significant contribution.
The couple has been seen together at various events, including Wimbledon, music festivals, and vacations. Hayes, aged 34, boasts one Cheltenham Festival victory in his 17-year career and has ridden for notable figures like Willie Mullins.