Trainer Henry de Bromhead has admitted it will be a big challenge for Rachael Blackmore to become Champion Jockey.
Blackmore trails title rival and current Champion Paul Townend by just eight winners as the season draws to an close at the Punchestown Festival.
Unfortunately for Blackmore, she is running out of road with just seven meetings left. Townend is currently out injured having suffered a fall at Fairyhouse over Easter.
"Rachael Blackmore is living a dream at the moment."
What a year it has been for Rachael Blackmore so far. Ger Gilroy and Neil Treacy reflected on Blackmore's historic achievement on Monday's #OTBAM | 🏇@GilletteUK | #MadeOfWhatMatters
Full chat ➡️ https://t.co/bdLBpHQaeo pic.twitter.com/2AQ8Xq35qV— Off The Ball (@offtheball) April 12, 2021
While Blackmore has a season for the ages having topped the jockey standings at Cheltenham, her six-winner haul has only been matched or beaten by one other rider ever, Ruby Walsh.
De Bromhead, who provided Blackmore with a Grand National winner in Minella Times,as well as a significant chunk of the 87 winners that have her in touch for the title is backing his jockey.
"We'll see," he said about Blackmore winning the Championship.
"I'm not sure what Paul's situation is. If Paul is back for Punchestown, it is going to be tough.
"Even if he is not back ,it would be incredible if she achieves it. We will be trying to support her as best we can. Wouldn't it be fantastic if she was? [Champion Jockey]"
'Rachael Blackmore is incredible'
Again, de Bromhead paid tribute to Blackmore's skill in the saddle as well as her tenacity.
"She is incredible, in the Grand National she was seeing around corners. She was seeing problems before they even came.
"Rachael is just great to work with, she has great work ethic and she know just how hard you have to work to succeed.
"She gets on great with everyone and she rides winners. Thta's what we want, I know I have said it all before but she is just brilliant. We feel very lucky to have her."
Blackmore achievements have garnered global headlines, and the trainer is very happy the spotlight is on her and not him.
"I'm very happy [she is taking the linelight off me], delighted for her. I think it is brilliant for the sport. And I am really happy with that situation [where Rachael attracts the headlines]."
The trainer also confirmed some of his big stars will line out at the Punchestown Festival. Bob Olinger, Honeysuckle, Envoi Allen, Minella Indo and Quilixios are all set to race for the final week of the year.
Riding arrangements for Envoi Allen are still unclear with Davy Russell still on the sidelines while Jack Kennedy will retain the ride on Minella Indo.
