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Rachael Blackmore Inducted as Grand National Legend, Bar Named After Her

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Rachael Blackmore, the first female jockey to win the Randox Grand National, will be inducted as a Grand National Legend for 2026. The 36‑year‑old retired rider guided Minella Times to triumph at Aintree in 2021. Her induction will be celebrated on the opening day of the Grand National Festival this Thursday with great support from fans.

Blackmore joins a distinguished roster that includes Ginger McCain, Jenny Pitman, JP McManus, and equine icons Red Rum, Tiger Roll and Aldaniti. The ceremony will take place beside the newly‑renamed Blackmore’s Bar, which the former jockey will officially open. She added that the moment felt unforgettable to honour her legacy and the race course community.

Blackmore retired in May 2025 after amassing 575 career winners, including 18 victories at the Cheltenham Festival. Her historic 2021 win marked a turning point for female riders in national hunt racing. The new bar offers a unique venue for fans to celebrate the sport’s heritage while enjoying a modern twist and community bonding experience.

The induction ceremony underscores the growing recognition of women’s impact on steeplechasing. By opening Blackmore’s Bar, the former champion provides a permanent tribute to her achievements and a gathering spot for enthusiasts. Rachael Blackmore’s legacy now sits beside legends, cementing her place in the annals of Aintree history for future generations of riders and fans.