Tipperary rejoices with delight as Rachael Blackmore picks up prestigious honour at HRI Awards

Blackmore joins an elite list of past winners including HH the Aga Khan, Jessica Harrington and JP McManus

Killenaule's Rachael Blackmore has been recognised with the Contribution to the Industry Award at the 2025 Horse Racing Ireland Awards.

The award was presented to the Tipperary native in Dublin on Monday evening, marking her first major honour since she stepped away from racing in May after a remarkable career in the saddle.

Previous winners of the accolade include the late owner-breeder HH the Aga Khan, trainer Jessica Harrington and multiple champion owner-breeder JP McManus.

Presenting the award, HRI chief executive Suzanne Eade praised Blackmore’s extraordinary impact on the sport.

"Rachael has made an incredible mark in a short space of time. Thirty-three Grade 1 victories, 18 Cheltenham Festival wins featuring the Gold Cup, Champion Hurdles and a Champion Chase, and of course, the unforgettable Grand National triumph at Aintree. Many of these achievements arrived during Covid, lifting spirits across the country.

"She continues to inspire as a trailblazer and role model," she said.

There was more success for the Premier on the night with Tipperary trainer Sam Curling claiming the Point-to-Point Award in recognition of Wonderwall's victory in the St James’s Place Festival Hunter Chase at Cheltenham and a record tally of wins at home.