In an uplifting development that has warmed hearts across the horse racing community, Grand National and Cheltenham Gold Cup legend Rachael Blackmore has shared moments of profound personal joy and generosity. The retired Irish jockey, renowned for her trailblazing achievements as one of the most successful female riders in the sport’s history, inadvertently let slip during an awards ceremony that she was preparing to marry her longtime boyfriend and former on-track rival, fellow jockey Brian Hayes, the following month.
What began as a light-hearted revelation quickly turned into a wave of celebration, underscoring not only her happiness in private life but also her enduring commitment to giving back.
Blackmore, who hails from Tipperary and rose to international fame with historic victories—including becoming the first female jockey to win the Grand National in 2021 aboard Minella Times and claiming the Cheltenham Gold Cup on A Plus Tard—has always carried herself with quiet determination and humility. Her relationship with Hayes, a respected rider from Rosscarbery in West Cork, has been a steady presence behind the scenes for years.
The pair, both deeply embedded in the racing world, occasionally found themselves competing against each other, turning friendly rivalry into a unique bond forged through shared passion and understanding of the sport’s demands. Hayes, born in 1988, has built his own solid career in National Hunt racing, and their partnership has often been described as grounded and supportive, away from the spotlight.
The announcement came unexpectedly at the ceremony, where Blackmore was being honored for her contributions to equestrian sport. As she accepted an accolade related to her induction or recognition within the Cheltenham Equestrian sphere, she casually mentioned wedding preparations set for the next month. The room erupted in applause, with colleagues, fans, and industry figures offering immediate congratulations.
What elevated the moment further was her disclosure of a generous plan tied to the occasion: she would donate her entire prize money from the Cheltenham Equestrian Hall of Fame recognition to support underprivileged children, while also committing to provide 10,000 meals on her wedding day for those in need.
This act of philanthropy aligns seamlessly with Blackmore’s character. Throughout her career, she championed causes close to her heart, including initiatives for injured jockeys and youth engagement in racing. Her Serial Winners Fund, launched in partnership with a major bookmaker, raised substantial sums by donating for each of her victories, benefiting charitable efforts in the industry. Even after announcing her retirement from competitive riding in 2025 to pursue new paths, Blackmore has remained an influential figure, using her platform to inspire and assist.
Dedicating Hall of Fame prize money—earned through her legacy of excellence—to children’s welfare reflects a desire to extend the sport’s positive impact beyond the racetrack.
The wedding itself took place in a private, intimate ceremony in early January 2026 in Rosscarbery, West Cork, surrounded by close family and friends. Details emerged gradually, with Blackmore later sharing elegant photos on social media that captured the joy of the day. She appeared radiant in classic bridal attire, her brunette hair styled in soft waves, complemented by minimal yet meaningful accessories like pearl drop earrings. The low-key event emphasized personal significance over extravagance, a fitting choice for someone who has always prioritized authenticity amid fame.
Hayes, speaking in post-race interviews around the time, expressed delight at the milestone, describing it as a lovely day in their home place. The couple’s shared background in racing made the union particularly resonant within the industry, where personal lives often intertwine with professional ones. Colleagues from the weighing room and beyond sent heartfelt messages, celebrating the couple’s happiness after years of mutual support through the highs and lows of a demanding career.
Blackmore’s gesture with the meals and donation added a layer of community spirit to the celebration. By sponsoring 10,000 meals, she aimed to bring nourishment and warmth to underprivileged children on what was already a day of personal fulfillment. This initiative highlights ongoing challenges in access to food and support for young people, particularly in rural areas like those in Ireland where racing holds deep cultural roots. Her Hall of Fame prize money, directed toward children’s causes, further amplifies her legacy as a role model who uses success to uplift others.
The racing world has responded with overwhelming positivity. Fans, commentators, and fellow riders have praised Blackmore not just for her groundbreaking wins but for her grace off the track. Her story serves as a reminder that the sport thrives on more than competition—it flourishes through human connections, resilience, and kindness. As Blackmore transitions into this new chapter, married life and continued advocacy, her actions inspire hope and goodwill.
Just weeks after the wedding, the couple shared even more joyful news: they are expecting their first child. Blackmore posted a lighthearted image hinting at the exciting change, with fans flooding social media with congratulations. This personal happiness, combined with her charitable spirit, paints a picture of a fulfilling future beyond the saddle.
For an industry that has faced its share of challenges, from safety concerns to evolving participation, stories like Blackmore’s provide a much-needed boost. Her inadvertent reveal at the awards ceremony sparked widespread delight, but it is her generosity—channeling recognition into support for vulnerable children—that truly embodies the best of horse racing’s values: courage, community, and compassion.
As the sport looks ahead to future festivals and classics, Blackmore’s influence endures. She has rewritten records, broken barriers, and now, in quieter but equally powerful ways, continues to make a difference. The good news extends far beyond one couple’s union; it reflects a spirit of positivity that resonates throughout the racing family, reminding everyone why this sport captivates hearts worldwide.
