Racing legend Rachael Blackmore, who retired from the sport last year, has shared the exciting news of her pregnancy with her husband, fellow jockey Brian Hayes. The couple recently got married in a cozy ceremony in West Cork after being acquainted for more than a decade.
Making the announcement on her Instagram story, Rachael posted a picture of her Volvo car with a baby pram in the boot, expressing her joy and humor at the changing contents. The 36-year-old, known for her groundbreaking achievements as the first female jockey to win the Grand National and lead jockey at Cheltenham, retired with an impressive record of 575 wins in her professional career.
Having retired in May 2021 following her victory with Minella Times at Aintree, Rachael’s accolades include being the leading rider at the Cheltenham Festival in 2021. Her outstanding performances also saw her receiving the World Sports Star award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards and being honored as the greatest female jump jockey of all time by Cheltenham racecourse.
Rachael and Brian, who have been close friends for over ten years since their early days in the racing world, have cultivated a strong personal and professional bond. Despite both being accomplished jockeys, they rarely discuss racing at home. Rachael has publicly acknowledged Brian’s significant role in her career, emphasizing his importance in her success.
The couple, often seen together at various events like Wimbledon and music festivals, are now expecting their first child, marking a new chapter in their lives. Brian, with a career spanning 17 years and one Cheltenham Festival win, has also ridden for notable figures like Willie Mullins.