Rachael Blackmore Appointed Cheltenham Ambassador in Drive to Inspire More Women into Racing

Rachael Blackmore has been appointed as a Cheltenham Racecourse Ambassador, a new role designed to help attract more women to horse racing and reshape perceptions of the sport’s accessibility.

The initiative, launched by The Jockey Club, comes as new research reveals that only 25% of visitors to Cheltenham Racecourse during the season are women — well below the 39% industry average for jump racing, according to data from the Racecourse Association and Great British Racing Data Insight Programme.

Further research in 2023 found that many women feel racing is “not for them”, citing the perception that the sport is primarily aimed at men.

Blackmore’s appointment coincides with the return of Ladies Day at the Cheltenham Festival, which will take place on Wednesday 11 March 2026 — the first since 2019. Her ambassadorial work will centre on reconnecting women with the sport, both as fans and as part of its wider community.

Guy Lavender, Chief Executive of Cheltenham Racecourse, said:

“Rachael is a household name whose success and passion for horseracing resonates not only with racing fans and aficionados but with general sports fans and wider audiences.”

Blackmore, who retired from the saddle in May 2025 after a career that included historic victories in the Champion Hurdle and Cheltenham Gold Cup, said she is eager to understand racing from a new perspective:

“It’s going to be a very different experience going racing and not heading for the weighing room, but I’m looking forward to seeing what racedays are like from the other side of the rails. I’m interested in meeting racegoers to understand why they attend — and also what might be stopping others from coming.”

She added:

“Horseracing is an amazing sport, and a day at the races provides so much opportunity for people to socialise, connect, and enjoy the experience. I’m excited to help engage more women and show them what makes a day at the races such a special and unforgettable experience.”

Blackmore’s influence as one of the sport’s most recognisable and respected figures gives this campaign weight — not only celebrating her individual achievements but also underscoring the importance of women’s visibility and participation across racing.

The initiative represents a renewed effort from Cheltenham and The Jockey Club to open racing’s doors wider and ensure that the next generation of fans — and leaders — sees the sport as a place where they belong.