RACHAEL Blackmore’s successes at Cheltenham and Aintree will open doors for other female jockeys who aspire to make a career out of riding over jumps or on the flat. That view is shared by four female licence holders who spoke to The Irish Field this week.

Áine O’Connor is not only one of Ireland’s leading amateur riders, she is also a recruitment officer for the Racing Academy and Centre of Education. “I definitely think Rachael’s success will encourage more girls into taking out a licence,” she said.