Retired horse racing legend Rachael Blackmore has shared the joyful news that she is expecting her first baby with her husband and fellow jockey, Brian Hayes. The announcement comes just weeks after the couple celebrated their wedding in a cosy ceremony in West Cork on January 5, marking a new chapter in their lives together.
A Heartwarming Announcement on Social Media
Rachael Blackmore revealed her pregnancy in a charming post on her Instagram story on Thursday afternoon. She shared a photo of her Volvo car with a baby pram neatly placed in the boot, accompanied by the caption: "Love driving the Volvo XC60 BA. Boot contents looking a little bit different now.." This subtle yet delightful hint has delighted fans and followers across the globe.
A Stellar Racing Career
The 36-year-old Tipperary-born jockey retired from professional racing last year after an extraordinary career that saw her make history as the first female jockey to win the Grand National. She also became the first woman to secure the title of leading jockey at the Cheltenham Festival in 2021. Throughout her career, Rachael amassed an impressive total of 575 wins, partnering with notable horses such as Minella Times for her historic Aintree victory.
Her accolades extend to winning all five championship contests at Cheltenham, with memorable successes including Honeysuckle in the Champion Hurdle (2021 and 2022), A Plus Tard in the Cheltenham Gold Cup (2022), Envoi Allen in the Ryanair Chase (2023), Captain Guinness in the Queen Mother Champion Chase (2024), and Bob Olinger in the Stayers’ Hurdle (2025). In recognition of her achievements, she was awarded the World Sports Star at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards in 2021 and was inducted into Cheltenham's hall of fame as the greatest female jump jockey of all-time.
A Decade-Long Friendship and Partnership
Rachael and Brian Hayes have been close friends for over a decade, having first met at a stables in County Carlow during the early stages of their racing careers. They previously lived together with their friend Patrick Mullins, son of legendary jump trainer Willie Mullins. Despite sharing a household of jockeys, Rachael once noted that they rarely discussed racing, highlighting the depth of their personal bond.
Upon her retirement last May, Rachael publicly acknowledged Brian's significant influence on her career, stating: "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." Brian, aged 34, has ridden one Cheltenham Festival winner in his 17-year career and has worked for prominent figures including Willie Mullins.
Life Beyond the Track
The couple have been spotted enjoying various events together, such as Wimbledon, music festivals, and holidays, showcasing their shared interests outside of horse racing. With this pregnancy announcement, they are now embarking on an exciting new journey into parenthood, adding to the joy of their recent marriage.
As Rachael Blackmore transitions from a celebrated racing career to motherhood, fans and the sports community alike are celebrating this heartwarming news, wishing the couple all the best for the future.
