Blackmore becomes first woman jockey to win Champion Hurdle
Blackmore was untroubled as the 11-10 favourite streaked clear to win by six lengths.
CHELTENHAM (Reuters) – Rachael Blackmore became the first woman jockey to win the Champion Hurdle when she guided Honeysuckle to victory in the opening feature race of the Cheltenham Festival.
The 31-year-old Irish rider was untroubled as the 11-10 favourite streaked clear to win by six lengths. It was unbeaten Honeysuckle’s 11th successive victory.
“Absolutely incredible,” Blackmore said. “I’m speechless to be honest. I can’t believe we just won the Champion Hurdle.
“It’s unbelievable for everyone in the yard. She’s so straightforward to ride. It’s very easy to do things when you know you’ve a big engine underneath you.”
The usual Cheltenham roar from the grandstands was missing as Blackmore crossed the line, however, as this year’s four-day jump racing festival is taking place behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic.
