A tearful Rachael Blackmore paid tribute to Jack de Bromhead after picking up victory in Honeysuckle's final-ever race.
The famous mare stormed to victory in the mares hurdle at Cheltenham Festival on Tuesday to cap off a marvellous career for the Henry de Bromhead-trained horse.
Immediately after the race Blackmore spoke to ITV's Matt Chapman and through the tears, spoke beautifully about Jack de Bromhead, who passed away at the age of 13 after a pony racing accident in September 2022.
READ MORE: Cheltenham Festival 2023: Constitution Hill cruises to victory in Champion Hurdle
"We all wish a very special kid could be here today but he's watching down on us," said Blackmore.
Speaking about Honeysuckle, she said: "She was unbelievable. The way Henry has produced her every day is just phenomenal. As a jockey, I'm just so grateful.
Don't know which horse to pick for the Gold Cup? Use our tool below to help you decide.
"She's just a phenomenal mare, has been incredible for my career. She's just a credit to everyone. It's just a brilliant day."
In the winners' enclosure, the usually calm and collected de Bromhead was overcome with joy as he fist-pumped to the crowd. Speaking to ITV alongside a youngster who used to ride with his son Jack, he spoke about how much this victory means for his entire family.
"Sure it's the fairytale ending isn't it?" said an ecstatic de Bromhead. "It's what you dream of happening and more often than not it doesn't, but today it has and it's incredible. It means a lot to all of us."
While billed as Honeysuckle's farewell, both de Bromhead and owner Kenny Alexander joked that a ride in Punchestown wasn't out of the question.
If this is the end for Honeysuckle she retires with a stunning record of 17 wins in 19 races and will be fondly remembered as one of the most popular horses of recent times.
READ NEXT:
Henry de Bromhead heads to Cheltenham Festival with different outlook following death of son Jack
Cheltenham Festival 2023: Ruby Walsh's A-Z guide for this year's meeting at Prestbury Park
Rachael Blackmore hungry for more success as Cheltenham edges closer
Cheltenham Festival Quiz: Test your knowledge of the famous meeting
