Rachael Blackmore is hoping for another stellar year after becoming a contender for Irish Champion jockey.
"I've had a fantastic 12 months," she told RTÉ Sport, reflecting on some of her victories over the year.
"Three winners at the Punchestown festival; it was an unbelievable week.
"Rode a winner on BHP Irish Champion Hurdle day (Patricks Park) , that was great, rode a two-year-old winner for Willie Mullins, Bedrock beating Samcro.
"It's been a brilliant year and hopefully it can continue."
With 67 victories to her name since the resumption of National Hunt racing in the autumn, Blackmore is just two wins behind Paul Townend in the Champion Jockey race and nine clear of reigning champ Davy Russell.
She has already smashed Nina Carberry's previous record of 39 wins in a season for a female jockey.
@rachaelblackmor is awarded the "National Hunt Achievement" award.
— Horse Racing Ireland (@GoRacing) December 4, 2018
"I never saw myself in this position, not in my wildest dreams did I think I could achieve this & I am so greatful for the phenomenal support I have had from trainers, owners and other jockeys" #HRIAwards pic.twitter.com/7cP0fKuyYO
The Tipperary woman paid tribute to all the trainers that have made that possible, such as Henry de Bromhead and Joseph O'Brien, while warning that it is far too early in the year to dream about becoming the first woman to win the big prize.
"To have that many on the board heading into Christmas is massive," she said.
"I'm very grateful for all the support I've received. You can't have that many winners unless you're on the right horses. They're taking you there and you're just trying not to mess it up.
"We're in the middle of the season. Most people are looking back on 2018 but the jumps season is 2018/19. I'm thrilled with how the year is gone but it's not over yet."
Blackmore has yet to win a Grade One but is hoping for more opportunities to do so in 2019.
She piloted Balko des Flos to third behind Min in the John Durkan Memorial Chase at Punchestown earlier this month.
"It would be lovely to get a ride in those races. Fingers crossed."
