Jack's looking down on us

Honeysuckle jockey's victory nod to trainer Henry's late son | Emotional de Bromhead's delight at win 'we all wanted'

- ROBERT HYNES

RACHAEL Blackmore said trainer Henry de Bromhead's son Jack was "looking down on us" as she rode Honeysuckle to an emotional victory at Cheltenham yesterday.

Just six months after 13-year-old Jack was killed in a fall during a beach race in Co Kerry, super mare Honeysuckle won in the Cotswolds for the fourth year in a row - in what looks to have been her final race.

Moments after the 9/4 joint-favorite triumphed, Blackmore fought back tears.

She said: "We all wish a very special kid could be here today but he's watching down on us.

"She's unbelievable, the way Henry has produced her every day is phenomenal.

"She's just a phenomenal mare and has been amazing for my career. She's just a credit to everyone. Kenny [Alexander, owner] is one of the coolest owners you'll ever ride for."

De Bromhead, who was at the races with his wife and Jack's mother Heather, celebrated in the parade ring with Tubs McNally, one of Jack's best friends - who rode alongside him in pony races.

He added: "We're really grateful for the support and the reception. It's been an incredibly tough time.

"You dream that this sort of win would happen but more often than not they don't so it's amazing.