Rachael Blackmore plans shocking return just in time for Christmas

In Ireland, Rachael Blackmore, the renowned Grand National-winning jockey, suffered a significant neck injury during a fall in late September 2024 while riding at Downpatrick. Her fall occurred from the horse Hand Over Fist, trained by Henry de Bromhead, and she has since been sidelined and placed in a neck brace as part of her recovery. During this period of rehabilitation, Blackmore has utilized her time creatively, collaborating with Betfair to film a documentary on the impact of the £250,000 she raised through the Betfair Serial Winners' Fund for injured jockeys. This initiative underscores the importance of financial support for jockeys who frequently endure injuries throughout their careers. In her statement to Betfair, Blackmore provided an update about her recovery process, expressing her optimism and eagerness to return to racing by the week before Christmas. Initially, she anticipated a short recovery period; however, the complexity of neck injuries significantly delayed her return to the sport. As she explained, the healing process has been gradual but steady, thanks to the devoted medical professionals assisting injured jockeys. Furthermore, Blackmore was given insight into developing plans for a new 'state of the art' rehabilitation facility in Kildare, Ireland, under the Irish Injured Jockeys' Fund. This center is modeled after existing facilities in the UK, which have proven successful in aiding jockeys post-injury. Blackmore expressed her enthusiasm about the potential of this new facility, emphasizing how crucial it will be for fellow riders who must seek treatment after injuries, which are a common reality in the sport. Recognizing the facility's early stages, she highlighted the positive impact it could make on the lives of jockeys facing similar challenges. Despite the setbacks, Blackmore's determination to return to racing serves as an inspiration, and her ongoing involvement with the funding initiatives illustrates the camaraderie and support within the jockey community. As she counts down to her expected return, the outpouring of encouragement from her peers and fans alike showcases the tightly-knit nature of the horseracing community, where each rider understands the risks and recovery processes involved. Overall, Blackmore's journey serves as a reminder of the physical toll that the sport can take and the importance of rehabilitation resources in helping athletes return to their passions.