Rachael Blackmore, the trailblazing jockey who made history as the first woman to win the Grand National, is set to be inducted as a Grand National Legend at Aintree on Thursday.
The 36-year-old achieved her iconic victory aboard Minella Times in 2021, cementing her place in the annals of the world’s most famous steeplechase.
This prestigious honour places Blackmore alongside an elite group of racing figures, including legendary trainers Ginger McCain and Jenny Pitman, owner JP McManus, and equine stars such as Red Rum, Tiger Roll, and Aldaniti.
Each will have a plaque celebrating their achievements unveiled at Aintree during a special ceremony on the opening day of the Randox Grand National Festival.
The event will take place at the newly-renamed Blackmore’s Bar, which the jockey herself will officially open.
The new alcohol-free facility offers a range of options for racegoers, including Lavazza coffee, fresh bakes, and snacks, alongside more traditional alcohol-free beverages.
To mark its opening, the first 100 coffees served on Thursday will be complimentary.
Reflecting on the recognition, 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.”
Dickon White, The Jockey Club’s north west regional director, underscored the significance of the induction.
He added: “Rachael’s outstanding achievement in the Randox Grand National speaks for itself and it seems only right that she has been made a Grand National Legend at the earliest opportunity.
“We are also excited by the opening of Blackmore’s Bar on the first day of the Randox Grand National Festival. As an alcohol-free space, it’s a facility that will offer something different and one that our feedback has shown would be welcomed by a number of our racegoers.”
