| Cheltenham Festival 2022 |
|---|
| Dates: March 15-18 Campus: Cheltenham Racecourse Races: 13:30-17:30 GMT Main race: 15:30 |
| Coverage: Commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra, Radio 5 Live racing features. Racecards, live text, results and reports on the BBC Sport website and app. |
Rachael Blackmore rode the undefeated mare Honeysuckle to a thrilling second consecutive victory in the Champion Hurdle on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival.
The Irish running back led the 8-11 favorite to a 15th consecutive career victory for trainer Henry of Bromhead.
Honeysuckle and Blackmore received a big reception after finishing ahead of 2020 champion Epatante and Zanahiyr.
Blackmore made history as the first female rider to win the big Tuesday race last year.
She went on to become the first woman to be the best jockey in the meeting and went on to win the Grand National in the Minella Times.
Honeysuckle is the first mare to win the Champion Hurdle twice.
Last year’s meeting was held behind closed doors due to COVID-19, and this time a crowd of nearly 70,000 cheered on the runners.
“Walking in front of the stands with all the people, it’s such a special place,” said Blackmore, 26.
“I’m so lucky to ride winners here and this mare, she’s just amazing.”
More to follow.
- Six movies that got the facts wrong: From the Jamaican bobsleigh team to Sylvester Stallone’s goalkeeping exploits
- ‘King of spin’: A look back at when Michael Vaughan sat down with cricket legend Shane Warne
Add Comment