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Rachael Blackmore Named Head of Ladies’ Day as Cheltenham Revives 2026 Event

The retired champion will front a data-led push to lift Cheltenham’s low share of female attendees.

Overview

  • Cheltenham confirmed Blackmore’s ambassadorial appointment on Monday, with her brief to identify barriers discouraging women from attending racedays.
  • Ladies’ Day will return to the Festival on Wednesday 11 March 2026, marking its first appearance since 2019.
  • Blackmore has begun the role and will attend this week’s November Meeting as a racegoer to engage fans and gather feedback.
  • Jockey Club data shows women make up about a quarter of Cheltenham visitors, well below the jump-racing average of roughly 39% cited by industry research.
  • Planned outreach includes pop-up events Blackmore will front in shopping centres in Birmingham on 31 January, Oxford on 7 February and Cardiff on 14 February.