Grand National winner Rachael Blackmore surprises young fan with special honour

ITV Granada Reports correspondent Elaine Willcox has been speaking to nine-year-old Joshua and pioneering jockey Rachael Blackmore.

A nine-year-old horse racing fanatic has had the surprise of a lifetime after meeting the first woman to win the Grand National.

Joshua Duckworth, from Liverpool, has grown up going to the racing with his dad and was learning all about Rachael Blackmore in a history lesson at school when the steeplechase winner herself walked in.

The Irish rider, 35, left Joshua speechless after inviting him to be the honorary 35th runner in the famous steeplechase representing Alder Hey Children's Hospital.

Grand National-winning rider Rachel Blackmore will compete in next year's race. Credit: PA Images

"He's going to be treated like royalty on the day", Rachael said. "It's going to be a really special day. It's fantastic that position is there so someone can enjoy it."

Joshua was diagnosed with 4H leukodystrophy in 2023, a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system and causes progressive mobility issues.

The Jockey Club, who brought presents for all of Joshua's classmates at St Vincent's School, first created the honorary runner for the Grand National in April 2017 for five-year-old Neuroblastoma campaigner Bradley Lowery.

Joshua's name will appear around Aintree on race day and in the racecard, alongside the 34 horses taking part in the steeplechase.

His dad, Christopher Duckworth, said: "He's a bit overwhelmed but I know that he will love the day. This one was a nice surprise for him. He'll be telling everyone about it."

During her visit to Joshua's school, Rachael Blackmore confirmed that she is recovering from a neck injury and will be vying for her second Grand National win in April 2025.

The Irish rider began breaking major records in 2021 when she became the first woman to win the world-famous horse race.

The 2025 Grand National will be held at Aintree Racecourse on Saturday, 5 April, at 4pm.

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