Legendary Irish jockey Rachael Blackmore has thrown her support behind the prospects of a Cheltenham Festival victor on day two of Aintree's Grand National meeting. The retired rider's tip, Heart Wood, is set to compete in the prestigious Grade 1 Melling Chase this Friday, with Blackmore observing from the stands in Liverpool.
Blackmore's Historic Connection to Aintree
Having retired from racing last year, Blackmore will be a spectator at this year's National, but her legacy at the course remains indelible. In 2021, she created history as the first female jockey to triumph in the Grand National, partnering the Henry de Bromhead-trained Minella Times to a memorable victory.
De Bromhead and Blackmore shared a hugely successful partnership during her riding career, and one of the Irish handler's Aintree contenders has now captured the 36-year-old's attention as a tipster.
Heart Wood: The Cheltenham Winner in Focus
That runner is Heart Wood, victor of the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham and one of the leading contenders for Friday's Melling Chase. Currently priced at 13-8 on Betfair, the gelding has triumphed in three of his last four outings, including a notable win with Blackmore in the saddle back in 2024.
At Cheltenham, with jockey Darragh O'Keeffe aboard, Heart Wood stormed to a 10-length victory over rivals like Jonbon and Banbridge, showcasing his class and stamina.
Blackmore's Insight on the Race
"I feel like Aintree is such a Grand National-focused meeting, but Henry's going to go over there with Heart Wood," Betfair Ambassador Blackmore said. "He's sensational and he was, I thought, at Cheltenham. I know Fact To File came out, but he would have given him a race, I think, in the manner in which he won. He'll have his chance."
She added, "It's a fantastic meeting. Willie [Mullins] is also obviously not bringing over as many this year. It looks like his main focus is on keeping his Irish Trainers' Championship."
Competitive Field for the Melling Chase
Just seven horses have been declared for the two-mile-four-furlong contest on the Mildmay Course. Dan Skelton's Gold Cup contender Grey Dawning, also at 13-8, currently heads the market alongside Heart Wood, setting up a thrilling duel.
Other challengers include Harry Fry's Gidleigh Park at 7-1 and the Joe Tizzard-trained JPR One at 16-1, who trailed behind Heart Wood back in March. Trainer Skelton also runs L'eau Du Sud at 12-1 as he edges closer to being crowned Britain's champion trainer for the first time, having surpassed £4 million in prize money this season.
Blackmore's Praise for Skelton
Reflecting on Skelton's achievements, Blackmore noted, "It is fantastic for Dan Skelton. What a phenomenal season he's had and to break the £4m mark is an incredible achievement for him."
Rachael Blackmore was speaking ahead of the Aintree Grand National Festival, highlighting the excitement and competitive spirit that defines this iconic racing event.
