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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Robert Hynes

Rachael Blackmore fancied to close gap in champion jockey race at Ballinrobe

Rachael Blackmore is strongly fancied to cut Paul Townend's lead in the race to be crowned champion jockey at Kilbeggan on Friday.

The Grand National-winning rider has four mounts at the Co Mayo venue, with three of those coming for trainer Henry de Bromhead.

She partners two odds-on favourites in The Cathal Don (4.25) and An Taibhse (5.25) before getting on Four Horsemen (6.25) for Cork trainer TJ Nagle.

Blackmore's final ride mount of the evening comes on Cavalry Master in the last race at 7.55pm.

The Tipperary rider is currently seven winners behind Townend, who remains sidelined with a foot injury he suffered at Fairyhouse's Easter meeting.

Speaking earlier this week, de Bromhead said: “I’m not sure what Paul’s situation is, I don’t know if he’ll be back. It’s going to be tough even if he’s not back, but we’ll be trying to do our best and support her the best we can.

Paul Townend with Al Boum Photo (PA)

“You can all see for yourself (what her strengths are), in the National it was like she could see around corners, she saw dangers before they happened.

“She’s brilliant to work with and knows how hard you have to work to succeed. She gets on with everyone and knows how to ride winners.

“I’ve said it all before, but I think she’s just brilliant – we’re very lucky to have her."

The Waterford trainer and Blackmore are targeting more success on English soil at Sandown on Saturday having dominated both the Cheltenham Festival and Grand National.

Blackmore will partner 33/1 shot Ornua in the bet365 Celebration Chase at 3.05pm and Plan Of Attack in the bet365 Gold Cup Handicap Chase at 3.40pm.

De Bromhead also runs Champion Chase winner Put The Kettle On in the Celebration Chase, with Aidan Coleman partnering the 2/1 favourite.

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