Renowned jump racing jockey Rachael Blackmore has shared joyous personal news, announcing that she and her new husband are expecting their first child. This exciting revelation comes just weeks after the couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in Cork last month.
Historic Racing Career and Retirement
The 36-year-old athlete, who retired from professional racing in May of last year, enjoyed a spectacular career that saw her break significant barriers in the sport. Blackmore made history in 2021 when she became the first woman ever to win the prestigious Grand National, riding Minella Times to victory at Aintree.
Subtle Social Media Announcement
Blackmore chose a playful and indirect method to share her pregnancy news with fans. On her Instagram Stories, she posted a photograph of her Volvo XC60 car, making sure that a large box appearing to contain a pram was clearly visible in the boot of the vehicle.
The caption accompanying the image read: 'Love driving the Volvo XC60. Boot contents looking a little bit different now....' This clever hint immediately sparked speculation and excitement among her followers, who quickly interpreted the message as a pregnancy announcement.
Relationship with Fellow Jockey Brian Hayes
Blackmore married fellow jockey Brian Hayes, 34, in an intimate Irish wedding ceremony that she had previously shared images of on social media. The couple first confirmed their relationship publicly in 2021 during an appearance on Doireann Garrihy's Laughs Of Your Life podcast.
At the time, Blackmore revealed they were living together in Leighlinbridge, Carlow, along with another jockey, Patrick Mullins. She described their home life as surprisingly normal, noting that they discussed racing much less than people might expect.
A Decorated Racing Legacy
Before her retirement, Blackmore achieved what few jockeys ever accomplish - completing Cheltenham's 'grand slam' by winning the Gold Cup, the Champion Hurdle, the Queen Mother Champion Chase, and the Stayers Hurdle. She developed particularly strong partnerships with several horses, most notably Honeysuckle, whom she rode to four consecutive Cheltenham victories between 2020 and 2023.
In her retirement statement last year, Blackmore expressed deep gratitude for her career while acknowledging Hayes's significant role in her success. She stated: 'Brian Hayes won't enjoy getting a mention, but he was more important to my career than I'll ever be able to thank him for.'
Looking Forward to Motherhood
The pregnancy announcement marks a new chapter for Blackmore, who concluded her racing career after sixteen remarkable years in the saddle. In her retirement message, she reflected: 'My days of being a jockey have come to an end. I feel the time is right. I'm sad but I am also incredibly grateful for what my life has been for the past 16 years.'
Fans and fellow athletes have flooded social media with congratulations and well-wishes for the couple as they prepare for parenthood. The news represents a heartwarming development following Blackmore's trailblazing achievements in the traditionally male-dominated world of jump racing.
