Rachael Blackmore raises £250,000 for injured jockeys after Betfair donates for every win ridden

The fund began on Betfair Chase day in November with an initial pot of £100,000. An additional £5,000 was added for each Blackmore-ridden winner. The prize was doubled for winners at the Cheltenham Festival, where the rider achieved victories with Slade Steel and Captain Guinness. The final total reached £210,000, and Betfair then added £40,000 to reach the final total.

On a subsequent day, Betfair paid out on Bob Olinger, who narrowly lost out in the Grade 1 Aintree Hurdle and was not promoted following a stewards’ inquiry. Charlotte Booth, the chief commercial officer for Betfair, expressed enthusiasm for the serial winners fund and highlighted the collaborative effort between Betfair, the IJF, Irish injured jockeys and Rachael. Booth also mentioned their visit to both Oaksey House in Lambourn and the Racing Academy & Centre of Education facility in Ireland, where they witnessed firsthand the work of both charities. Booth emphasized the dedication of the teams and the vital services and support they provide to jockeys.

She further noted the significance of these charities for the racing community and acknowledged that the initiative has raised awareness of these great causes. Additionally, she highlighted the best offers from Racing Post, all available in one place.