Irish horse racing legend Rachael Blackmore has announced the birth of her first child, and the name is honestly adorable.
Sharing the lovely news on Instagram, Rachael posted a black-and-white photo of her newborn son snuggled into her chest. Keeping things simple, she revealed his name in the caption, writing: “Bowie Martin Hayes,” followed by a blue heart emoji.
Honestly adorable and very much future rockstar energy. Rachel and her partner Brian, who are both very well known in the racing world have usually keeping their personal lives private. Making this rare glimpse into their lives all the more special.
The post was simple and has already received huge, but has already received huge love online, with plenty of familiar Irish faces rushing to congratulate the couple.
View this post on Instagram
Doireann Garrihy wrote: “Massive congratulations, what a beautiful baby,” while Niamh De Brún also commented: “He’s adorable! Congratulations.”
The baby news comes after Rachael quietly announced her pregnancy earlier this year in a very subtle way. Back in February, she shared a photo of her car boot with a pram box inside, writing: “Boot contents looking a little bit different now…”
Rachael and Brian tied the knot earlier this year, confirming they had married in January. The wedding was described as a small an intimate ceremony, followed by a party with close friends and family in Cavan.
And when it came to wedding nerves, Rachael had the most Rachael Blackmore response possible.
View this post on Instagram
Previously joking: “Someone asked me, was I nervous? And I was like, no, I rode Honeysuckle in the Champion Hurdle. This is not nervous!” Which, to be fair, is a very hard argument to beat.
The Tipperary woman announced her retirement from professional racing in May of last year after a incredible career spanning 16 years. Making history to become the first femake jockey to win the Grand National and also became the first woman to be leading jockey at Cheltenham.
Also being the first female to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup, taking the title on A Plus Tard in 2022, and became one of the most admired figures in Irish sport along the way. Brian has also been a huge part of her life and career, with Rachael previously giving him a sweet mention when she announced her retirement. At the time, she said: “Brian Hayes won’t enjoy getting a mention, but he was more important to my career than I’ll ever be able to thank him for.”
View this post on Instagram
So yes, after years of breaking records, making history and becoming one of Ireland’s most respected sporting stars, Rachael is now stepping into a very different kind of chapter. Motherhood.
And honestly, after everything she has already achieved, something tells us she will take this next challenge in her stride too.
Congratulations to Rachael and Brian on the arrival of little Bowie Martin Hayes.
Words by Andrew Connolly
