Rachael Blackmore Out With Neck Injury

Rachael Blackmore, the trailblazing jockey known for being the first woman to win the Grand National, is set to miss several weeks of competition due to a neck injury sustained in a fall at Downpatrick racecourse. The 35-year-old fell from her mount, Hand Over Fist, during a handicap chase, prompting her withdrawal from upcoming races, including the Listowel festival. Blackmore is currently tied for the lead in the Irish jockeys' championship with 23 winners alongside Keith Donoghue and Sam Ewing. The extent of her injury remains unclear, but she will undergo rehabilitation. Blackmore's previous accolades include victories in major races such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Champion Hurdle. Her absence comes at a critical time as the National Hunt season intensifies, and she hopes to return soon to capitalize on her successful start to the season.