Cheltenham: Tribute paid to ‘special kid’ Jack de Bromhead after Honeysuckle lands mares’ hurdle via IrishTimesSport
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A narrow second would have satiated the nostalgic desires of most, but clearly these didn’t exist as far as Rachael Blackmore was concerned. In a finish befitting of the mare’s career, Blackmore demanded more and Honeysuckle obliged. A fourth win in as many Cheltenham festivals was secured in her last race.
“I think it’s the result that everybody wanted,” said trainer Henry de Bromhead moments after embracing Blackmore, Honeysuckle’s partner in crime through all of her Cheltenham wins. The jockey couldn’t stay, a run on Bad in the next race calling her quickly ashore.
“You come to Cheltenham with Honeysuckle to ride and every jockey dreams of having the likes of her to go to Cheltenham with. She has given us so much and I’m so grateful to her. It will be different without her here next year. I knew I’d pick up again after the last [hurdle] but she is just an unbelievable mare. It is incredible what she has done for me, but it is incredible what she has done for all of us.
Once Blackmore ran off, Honeysuckle was given an extra lap around the parade ring. Cue the biggest reception of the day in the winner’s enclosure, quite possibly the week, rival trainer Willie Mullins among the adoring faithful.Willie Mullins front and centre in the biggest crowd of the day in the parade ring
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