Race ace Rachael: I'm jumping for joy

But mum-to-be champion expects an emotional return to Cheltenham

- BY JERRY LAWTON

Rachael celebrates a victory at Cheltenham last year

CHELTENHAM superstar and mum-to-be Rachael Blackmore admits returning to the festival as a guest will be difficult because she misses competing much.

The retired champion, 36-the only woman to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup and Aintree's Grand National - will be on the other side of the rails as the face of tomorrow's Ladies' Day.

Since hanging up her stirrups last May, she has married her long-term love and fellow jockey Brian Hayes, 37, and recently announced she is expecting their first baby.