Haydock Park hosts movie premiere

The ‘world’s first-ever’ movie premiere at a racecourse took place over the weekend at Haydock Park.

The event saw Betfair’s short film Serial Winners: Rachael Blackmore launched in aid of a huge new one-of-a-kind charity fund which will see up to £250,000 donated to horse racing causes. Punters at the track were given the ‘yellow’ carpet treatment as they queued to watch the new short film about the trials and tribulations of one of racing’s genuine game changers.

Betfair Ambassador, Rachael Blackmore:

“This is a very generous initiative from Betfair and one that I am excited to be a part of over the coming season. The work of IIJF and IJF is vital in providing support services for jockeys past and present. It’s great to have Betfair supporting not only me, but two organisations that are so important to us as jockeys.”

The stars of the racing world were out in force at the state-of-the-art stable cinema, haybale seating included, which was a fitting venue for the unique screening. Critics are calling the short into the life and career of winning jockey Rachael Blackmore, a “stunning, insightful documentary,” and it is now available to watch online in full.

Blackmore captured the hearts of the nation by winning the 2021 Grand National, an achievement that saw her being crowned the BBC Sports Personality’s World Sport Star of the Year, before going on to make even more history by winning the 2022 Cheltenham Gold Cup. With more than 500 professional winners so far in her career, she is a true serial winner and game changer in the world of horse racing.

The glitz and glamour at Haydock on Saturday provided the perfect backdrop to launch Rachael Blackmore’s Serial Winners Fund, with Betfair donating an initial £100,000, and a further £5,000 every time the superstar jockey wins a race this year.

Over the last 5 years Rachael Blackmore has ridden an average of 30 winners during this period; it’s anticipated the pot could increase up to £250,000 come Grand National Day.

Betfair Chief Commercial Officer, Charlotte Booth:

“We have a long and proud heritage of supporting Horse Racing and the wonderful charities which protect and care for its participants. Jockeys are central to this great sport and having worked with Rachael Blackmore we see firsthand the challenges faced on a daily basis. I have nothing but respect for these women and men and I, along with every one of my colleagues will be roaring home every runner Rachael has between now and Grand National day.”