Rachael Blackmore Predicts Grand National Success for Monty's Star
Rachael Blackmore, the iconic jockey who made history as the first woman to win the Grand National, has set her sights on a 16-1 shot for this year's renewal of the prestigious race. The 36-year-old, who retired from riding last May and will not be competing in the 2026 event, was recently inducted as a Legend of Aintree, with an on-course bar named in her honour. Blackmore famously triumphed aboard Minella Times, trained by Henry de Bromhead, five years ago, and she now believes another of the Irish trainer's horses could replicate that feat in the four-mile-two-and-a-half-furlong contest this weekend.
Blackmore's Analysis of De Bromhead's Contenders
In her role as a Betfair Ambassador, Blackmore expressed confidence in Monty's Star, stating, "I think Henry's runner, Monty's Star, has got a really good chance. Henry is so good at preparing them for a day like the National and he's got such a good record in it. The year I won, he had the second horse as well." She highlighted the horse's strengths, noting its Grade One form and straightforward, reliable jumping ability, adding, "I think he's one you'd like to be on." However, Blackmore acknowledged the competitive nature of the race, emphasising that luck plays a crucial role in navigating the challenging course.
Monty's Star, to be ridden by Darragh O'Keeffe, is priced at 16-1 with Betfair, but it is not the only De Bromhead entry. Another contender, Gorgeous Tom, is available at 25-1. Blackmore commented on this gelding as well, saying, "That horse has a nice profile going into the race as well. He's only 10st9lbs on his back. He's a nice weight. Both of Henry's go there with big chances I would say."
Top Picks for the Showpiece Event
Despite her praise for Gorgeous Tom, Blackmore did not include it in her predicted top three finishers. Instead, she forecasted that the 2024 winner I Am Maximus, at 7-1, and Willie Mullins' stablemate Grangeclare West, at 9-1, could join Monty's Star on the podium. She explained, "I think I Am Maximus is going to run a big race again. I'd also obviously love to see Grangeclare West up there again too." Reflecting on the unpredictability of the Grand National, Blackmore noted, "But I find it a really hard race to nail your colours to any horse. Because I know from riding in it there's just so many moments in the race when you need that bit of luck to go your way and it's whoever gets that on the passage around. It's a big thing."
Rachael Blackmore shared these insights ahead of the Aintree Grand National Festival, encouraging fans to engage with the event through Betfair. Her analysis underscores the excitement and uncertainty surrounding one of horse racing's most iconic competitions, as she leverages her unparalleled experience to spotlight potential winners.
