Rachael Blackmore to make London International Horse Show debut

Rachel Blackmore, pictured after her 2021 Grand National win, will make her London International Horse Show debut — Rachel Blackmore, pictured after her 2021 Grand National win

(Image credit: PA)

Cheltenham Gold Cup and Grand National-winning jockey Rachael Blackmore will switch saddles to compete over coloured poles at this year’s London International Horse Show.

Rachael, leading jockey at the 2021 Cheltenham Festival, will be part of the girls’ team in the Markel Jockeys Jumping, held in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund.

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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.

Grand National winner to swap saddles in London International Horse Show debut

“I did some eventing in my teenage years, but that was a long time ago now!” said Rachael, confident that “the girls… obviously” will be claiming this year’s title.

“I’ve never been before, so I’m looking forward to seeing some of the world’s top showjumpers in action. I imagine I’ll also end up spending some money in the 200+ shops there.”

The Markel Jockeys Jumping will be held during the final, Monday evening, performance of the five-day show (15 to 19 December) at the ExCel London.

“I suppose I loved going fast on my ponies and always had an interest in racing and watching it as a child. I always knew it was something I’d love to do but never envisaged it would be a career for me,” she said.

“I love riding horses, jumping and racing and being a ‘jockey’ means it’s your job and you get paid to do something you love, which is pretty cool.

“Different people at different times [have inspired me in my career], from all areas of life. Watching successful people be successful is an inspiration to me.”

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