Racing Apr 20, 2026

Grand National: History-maker Rachael Blackmore to be inducted as Legend and Aintree bar named in her honour

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By Admin
Sports Journalist
Grand National: History-maker Rachael Blackmore to be inducted as Legend and Aintree bar named in her honour

Rachael Blackmore, who made history when becoming the first female jockey to ride the winner of the Randox Grand National, will be inducted as a Grand National Legend for 2026.

The 36-year-old retired rider, who steered Minella Times to victory at Aintree in 2021, will be honoured in a ceremony on the opening day of the Grand National Festival this Thursday.

She joins the likes of Ginger McCain, Jenny Pitman and JP McManus as well as equine stars Red Rum, Tiger Roll and Aldaniti to be named a Grand National Legend.

The ceremony will take place by the newly-renamed facility Blackmore's Bar, which will be officially opened by Rachael herself on Thursday.

Blackmore said: "Winning the Randox Grand National at Aintree on Minella Times is a moment in my life I will never forget. Seeing my name now included on the list of Grand National Legends is such an honour, I feel very lucky to be part of that history.

"I'm also looking forward to opening Blackmore's Bar at the racecourse, something I definitely thought I would never be saying! It's a cool idea and something a bit different that people can hopefully enjoy during the week."

Blackmore announced her retirement from the saddle in May 2025 with a total of 575 career winners, which also included 18 successes at the Cheltenham Festival.

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