Irish Racing Legends
LEADING FLAT JOCKEY BIOS
ALGY ANTHONY
Born: Gloucester, 1871-1923
AFTER SERVING his apprenticeship with Derby-winning Beckhampton trainer Sam Darling - father of legendary trainer Fred - Algernon Anthony moved to Ireland where he became champion jockey on three occasions (1896,1897 and 1898). A dual purpose talent he rode two Irish Derby winners, Oppressor (1899) and Carrigavalla (1901), while in the intervening season he was the rider on board Ambush 11 when winning the Grand National in the colours of the future King Edward V11. He also rode two Irish Oaks winners in May Race (1900) and Juliet (1906). As a trainer, he won the Grand National in 1920 and the Grand Steeple-Chase de Paris in 1919 with Troytown from his Westenra Lodge stables near Kildare town.
TOMMY BURNS
Born: Ayrshire, 1898-1991
POPULARLY known as "The Scotchman", Tommy Burns came to Ireland in 1914 when his father, James (whose father emigrated to Scotland during the Famine from Virginia, Co Cavan), began training for Colonel Hall-Walker at Tully Stud (now the Irish National Stud). Regarded by his contempories as a perfect horseman and jockey, he was champion in 1932 during a riding career that spanned over 40 years and included wins in 21 Irish Classics, putting him second on the all-time list of Classic-winning jockeys behind great rival Morny Wing.
The father of T P Burns, the Classic role of honour reads: five 2,000 Guineas (Soldennis 1921 - inaugural running of the Classic - Soldumeno 1923, Cornfield 1939, Grand Weather 1947 and Beau Sabreur 1948); five 1,000 Guineas (West Indies 1927, Star of Egypt 1930, Spy-Ann 1933, Kyloe 1934 and Northern Gleam 1953 - beating Beau Co Co, partnered by his son T P, by a neck); one Derby (Raeburn 1936); four Oaks (Captive Prince 1916, Golden Maid 1917, Resplendent 1926, Uvria 1941); six St Legers (Captive Princess 1916, Golden Maid 1917, Cheap Popularity 1919, Beaudelaire 1931, Harvest Feast 1940, Beau Sabreur 1948).
He was equally effective over hurdles, winning the Galway Hurdle on King Eber (1920) and Smoke Cloud (1923) and the Gloucestershire Hurdle on Cobequid in 1933. He retired from race-riding in 1954. As a trainer won the 1961 Irish St Leger with Vimadee (ridden by son Tommy). Was the oldest trainer in Ireland and Britain when he handed over Lumville stables to his youngest son, John (who died in 2017), at the age of 87 in January, 1988.
Died at the age of 93 on February 26th, 1991.
T P BURNS
Born: 1924-2018
SON of Tommy 'The Scotchman' Burns, T P (Thomas Pascal) rode his first winner, Prudent Rose, when he was 14 at the 1938 Irish Derby meeting. Enjoyed his greatest days with Vincent O'Brien, for whom he rode Ballymoss to win the Irish Derby in 1957. His first big-race success came in the 1941 Irish Cambridgeshire on Mill Boy. Apprenticed to the legendary Steve Donoghue he returned to Ireland during the war years. His five other Irish Classics were two 2,000 Guineas (El Toro 1959 and Paveh 1966); one 1,000 Guineas (Shandon Belle 1962) and two St Legers (Vimadee 1961 and Pidget 1972).
Gained his biggest British win on Ballymoss in the 1957 St Leger, and rode Gladness to win the 1957 Irish Champion Stakes.
Like his father, he was an accomplished National Hunt jockey and his record over hurdles was formidable. Between 1955 and 1959 rode the winners of seven divisions of Cheltenham's Gloucestershire Hurdle (now Supreme Novices' Hurdle) as well as two other Festival winners in Lucky Dome (1954 Spa Hurdle) and Ahaburn (1955 Birdlip Hurdle), all trained by O'Brien. Won the 1952 Galway Hurdle on Warrenscourt Lad.
Partnered his last winner on Old Man River at Punchestown,1989 and rode Arkle to win at Navan in 1963. Was champion jockey (Flat and National Hunt combined) three times: 1954, 1955 and 1957. Later became assistant trainer to Vincent O'Brien and Dermot Weld.
He died in 2018 aged 94. Son James is a successful trainer based at the Curragh.
JOE CANTY
Born: Co Limerick, 1892-1971
IN a career that spanned 40 years (1912-1952), Joseph 'Kidder' Canty won seven jockeys' championships (1919, 1924, 1925, 1927, 1929, 1930, 1931), and 17 Irish Classics (putting him in third place behind Morny Wing and Tommy Burns on the all-time list). Rode 117 winners in 1925 under both codes, an Irish record for a calendar year until Charlie Swan won 123 races, all over jumps, in 1994.
In a long tradition of dual-purpose Irish jockeys, he was equally proficient under both codes, and that year gained 82 of his wins on the level and 35 over jumps. Excelled at riding a waiting race and coming with a late flourish.
His Irish Classic wins were: four 2,000 Guineas (Cariff 1934, Hocus Pocus 1936, The Phoenix 1943 and Claro 1946); five 1,000 Guineas (Serpent Star - trained by his brother Jimmy - 1939, Majideh 1942, Annetta 1944, Ella Retford 1946 and Morning Wings 1948); four Derbys (Haine 1924 - who dead-heated with Zodiac - Sea Serpent 1931, Mondragon - trained by brother Jimmy - 1939 and The Phoenix 1943); two Oaks (Majideh 1942 and Suntop 1943); two St Legers (Etoille de Lyons 1941 and Water Street 1944).
Led all the way on Knight's Caprice to score his biggest success in Britain in the 1939 Stewards' Cup. Winner of four Galway Hurdles he also won the Gloucestershire Hurdle on Rathnally (1928) for Frank Hartigan, brother of Hubert, who provided him with six of his Classic victories.
His nephew, Phil (who went on to become a much-respected trainer), rode two Irish Classic winners: 1,000 Guineas (Dark Issue 1955) and St Leger (Morning Madam 1950). Another nephew, John (now deceased), was a top US trainer on the West Coast.
On his retirement in 1952 he had won 1,437 races in Ireland, an all-time record for a jockey which stood until Christy Roche broke it in 1994. Went on to train but had little success. He died in March 1971.
GABRIEL CURRAN
Born: Kells, Co Meath, 1949-2008
APPRENTICED to Cyril Bryce Smith, Gabriel 'Squibs' Curran enjoyed a fruitful association with Curragh trainer Kevin Prendergast, becoming stable jockey in the early 70s after Laurie Johnson's return to Australia. Nebbiolo, who won the 1976 Gimcrack Stakes at York and the following season's English 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket, was probably the best Prendergast horse he was associated with. The partnership also hit the target in the domestic Classics with Northern Treasure (1976 2,000 Guineas) and Arctique Royale (1981 1,000 Guineas).
His other big-race wins for the yard included the 1976 Pretty Polly Stakes on Lady Singer, the 1982 Phoenix Stakes on Sweet Emma, the 1977 Tetrarch Stakes on Lordedaw, the 1978 Ballycorus Stakes on Jack Hylton, the 1976 Curragh Stakes on Nebbiolo, the 1972 Anglesey Stakes on Tekoah, the 1975 Beresford Stakes on Whistling Deer, the 1975 Killavullan Stakes on Glanoe and the 1986 Gladness Stakes on Lidhame.
He rode the longest-priced winner of an Irish Pattern race when partnering 100/1 shot Miss Therese, owned and trained by Pat Lally, in the Group Two Blandford Stakes in 1973, and landed two runnings of the Irish Cesarewitch on Polar Fox (1972) for Phonsie O'Brien and Ravaro (1985), trained by Joe Crowley. Other big handicap successes came on Do The Hustle and Assadaa (Scurry), Old Oak Tree and Salacious (Golden Pages), Ryker (McDonogh) and Cumbernauld (Leopardstown November).
Retired in 1993 and rode work for Charlie Swan who as an apprentice with Prendergast he had taken under his wing. Fulfilled a similar role for Nenagh trainer Tom Hogan before his death in February 2008 at his Puckane, Co Tipperary home where he ran a small stud. His daughter Hamara works for Derrinstown Stud.
JIMMY EDDERY
Born: Co Cork, 1924-1988
JIMMY Eddery served his apprenticeship in England with Atty Persse before returning to Ireland on the outbreak of the second World War, riding many winners for Fred Myerscough. In 1944, dead-heated in both the Irish 2,000 Guineas (Good Morning) and Cambridgeshire. Won his second Irish Classic the following year on Stalino. After a brush with the British authorities, who took a dim view of his departure from England, he joined Seamus McGrath in 1946, taking over from multiple Irish champion Morny Wing.
Two jockeys' titles followed in 1954 (48 winners) and 1955 (46). Other domestic Classics were recorded in the 1955 Derby on Panaslipper (on whom he finished second in the Epsom Derby) and in the 1957 Oaks on Silken Glider (who was beaten a short head by Carrozza in the English equivalent).
His robust style and at times heavy-handed tactics came in for some criticism before his retirement in 1959. He had 12 children, including son Pat Eddery (who died aged 63 in 2015), the holder of 11 British flat jockeys' titles and one Irish (1982).
SHANE FOLEY
Born: Co Kilkenny, 1988
SHANE FOLEY is a young rider going places. Just ask Jessica Harrington who appointed him as her number one rider in 2019. They enjoyed two Group One victories in their first season together with Millisle (Cheveley Park Stakes) and Albigna (Prix Marcel Boussac) but better was to follow. He was seen at his very best on Magical Lagoon who gave Harrington her second Classic success in the Irish Oaks at the Curragh in 2022. Just four weeks prior to that gutsy effort the jockey had produced another wonderful ride to steer Magical Lagoon to victory in the Group Two Ribblesdale Stakes at Royal Ascot, giving the trainer a third career victory at the big meeting.
Perhaps one of the best apprentices not to have won an apprentice title, he finished runner-up to fellow Michael Halford apprentice Gary Carroll despite riding 33 winners. The following year his efforts to lift the crown were thwarted by injury and he was again forced to settle for second spot behind Joseph O'Brien. Although riding many winners for Halford (227 in total), it was Curragh trainer Adrian Keatley who gave him his first Irish Classic success when Jet Setting powered home in the 2,000 Guineas in 2016. A second Irish Classic was landed in 2018 when Romanised, trained by Ken Condon, landed the 2,000 Guineas in May 2018.
He went freelance in 2017 and since hooking up with Harrington he has enjoyed multiple Group One and Group Two wins with Barnavara (2025 Prix de l'Opera Longines and 2025 Blandford Stakes), Discoveries (2021 Moyglare Stakes), No Speak Alexander (2021 Matron Stakes), Lucky Vega (2020 Phoenix Stakes), Cayenne Pepper (2020 Blanford Stakes), Real Appeal (2021 Clipper Logistics Boomerang Mile), Albigna (2019 Airlie Stud Stakes), Cadillac (2020 KPMG Champions Juvenile Stakes), Alpine Star (2019 Debutante Stakes), Leo De Fury (2020 Mooresbridge Stakes). Another Group One win came on the Hugo Palmer-trained Ebro River in the Phoenix Stakes.
He rode his first winner on the Liam McAteer-trained Snap at Leopardstown in 2007, and finished runner-up in the 2020 jockeys' title race to Colin Keane with 92 winners
CATHY GANNON
Born: Donaghmede, Co Dublin, 1981
ONE OF eight siblings, Cathy Gannon made history by becoming the first female apprentice champion in either Ireland or the UK in 2004 after riding 33 winners. She honed her skills from an early age, riding bareback on her brother's pony in the fields of the North Dublin suburb. After graduating from RACE, the apprentice jockeys' school on the Curragh, she joined leading trainer John Oxx and rode her first winner on Quivelly at Tipperary in 1998.
Moved to England in 2006, riding for Kevin Ryan, Bryn Palling and David Evans before a spate of injuries forced her to retire in 2017 after partnering a total of 440 winners. Alongside Hayley Turner, her riding career did much to further the cause of female jockeys in a male-dominated sport.
Her biggest success came in the Group Three Round Tower Stakes on the Evans-trained Dingle View in 2010 on a rare trip home to the Curragh. After her retirement she returned to live in Co Kildare where she works as a jockey coach and work-rider. Was awarded the prestigious Irish Times Sportswoman of the Year Award (2004) as well as claiming three Lesters as Lady Jockey of the Year Award in Britain in 2010, 2011 and 2015.
DECLAN GILLESPIE
Born: Strandhill, Co Sligo, 1954
CHAMPION apprentice in 1973 when riding for Kevin Prendergast, Declan Gillespie moved to Britain for two years as understudy to Ron Hutchinson at John Dunlop's Arundel stables. Returned home in 1977 and soon linked up with Jim Bolger where he enjoyed tremendous success with the fillies Give Thanks (Musidora Stakes, Lancashire Oaks), Condessa (Yorkshire Oaks, Musidora Stakes), Flame Of Tara (Coronation Stakes) and Park Appeal (Moyglare Stud Stakes, Cheveley Park Stakes).
Won four Irish Classics, including the 1983 Oaks on Give Thanks for Bolger, the 1988 2,000 Guineas on Prince Of Birds for Vincent O'Brien, the St Leger twice on Mountain Lodge (1983) for his old boss Dunlop and Dark Lomond (1988) also for.O'Brien. Other notable successes came aboard Habibti (1982 Moyglare Stakes), Park Appeal (1984 Moyglare Stakes) and Aviance (1984 Heinz 57 Phoenix Stakes). Won the Queen Alexandra Stakes at Royal Ascot in 1984 on the Hugh McCaffrey-trained Erins Invader.
Other good Bolger horses he partnered were Erins Isle, Happy Bride, Glasson Lady, Polonia, My Hollow, Lady Segrave, Columbanus, Celestial Path, Black Country, Condell, Condor Pan, Loyal Son and Mulvilla,
Rode his first winner at Roscommon in July 1972 on Ten Knots, owned and trained by his father Patrick. Retired at the age of 36 in 1990 after riding over 1,000 winners. Trained on the Curragh before moving to Malaysia, working as an assistant to son Thomas and as a consultant for Red Mills in Asia.
CHRIS HAYES
Born: Co Limerick, 1987
A GRADUATE of the pony racing circuit and RACE, Christopher Denis Hayes joined veteran trainer Kevin Prendergast as an apprentice in 2004 and was crowned champion apprentice in each of the next three years (2005, 2006 and 2007). Enjoyed his first Group One win on Prendergast's La Collina in the 2013 Matron Stakes, and a week later celebrated his first Irish Classic success on the Dermot Weld-trained Voleuse De Coeurs in the St Leger. He landed a second Classic when Atwaad, trained by Prendergast, landed the Irish 2,000 Guineas in 2016, and teamed up again with Weld for three more Irish Classic winners with Search For A Song (St Leger 2019), Homeless Songs (1,000 Guineas 2022) and Tahiyra (1,000 Guineas 2023).
Two more Group One wins came on Romantic Proposal (2021 Flying Five Stakes) and Tahiyra (2022 Moyglare Stud Stakes). And he went mighty close to winning his first British Classic when the Weld-trained Tahiyra went down by half a length to Mawj in a pulsating finish to the 1,000 Guineas at Newmarket in 2023. However, he secured his first British Classic the following season when producing Ezeliya with a sparkling turn of foot to win the Betfred Oaks at Epsom.
Celebrated his first Royal Ascot winner on Tahiyra in the 2023 Coronation Stakes and was seen at his tactical best on the exceptionally-talented filly when the partnership landed a fourth Group One victory in the Matron Stakes in 2023.
Rode his first winner on the Ger Lynch-trained Anonymity at Bellewstown in 2004, and partnered the longest-priced winner in the history of racing in Ireland on the Luke Comer-trained 300/1 shot He Knows No Fear at Leopardstown in 2020. His 1,000th winner on the Joseph O'Brien-trained Starford ar Roscommon in 2025 was bittersweet as it came a week after the funeral of his old boss Prendergast.
SEAMIE HEFFERNAN
Born: Co Kildare, 1972
James Anthony Heffernan, better known as Seamie, is probably one of the most successful Irish jockeys of all time without having ridden as number one jockey to a top yard. His first introduction to horse racing came at the stables of Arthur Moore and PJ Finn, where he rode his first winner on Annsfield Lady at Dundalk in 1988. When Finn retired he continued his apprenticeship with Jim Bolger and shared the Champion Apprentice title with Daragh O'Donoghue in 1994, as well as finishing runner-up to Pat Smullen the following season.
He has been an integral part of Aidan O’Brien’s operation at Ballydoyle since 1996, filling the understudy role to Mick Kinane, Kieren Fallon, Jamie Spencer, Johnny Murtagh and Ryan Moore. But it hasn’t stopped him winning all but one of the Classics in Ireland - the 2,000 Guineas eluding him.
Remained at the yard ever since and now must surely be the most successful back-up rider in turf history, having ridden 13 Classic winners in Ireland (11) and the UK (two). Rode his first Group One winner on Beckett in the 2000 National Stakes at the Curragh and his first Classic success came at the same track on Imagine in the Irish 1,000 Guineas in 2001. Remarkably, he bagged four more on Halfway To Heaven (2008), Misty For Me (2011) Peaceful (2020) and Empress Josephine (2021). Mount Nelson was his first Group One winner outside Ireland in the Criterium International at Saint-Cloud in 2006.
Favourite Santiago gave him his fourth Irish Derby win in 2020, adding to victories on Soldier Of Fortune (2007), Frozen Fire (2008) and Capri (2017). But he readily acknowledges that his 2019 Epsom Derby success on Anthony Van Dyck was the crowning moment of his long career. He has now won both the Epsom Classics, having landed the Oaks on Was in 2012, and he has mementoes as well from two Grade One wins in the US aboard Highland Reel (including a Breeders’ Cup Turf at Santa Anita in 2016), two top-class victories in France and an abundance of memories riding some of the best horses in the world.
With Moore's travel plans restricted in 2020 because of the global pandemic, it opened a few doors for him to guide Magical to two Group One wins in the Pretty Polly Stakes and Irish Champion Stakes, adding to consecutive victories on Cape Blanco (2010) and So You Think (2011) in the Leopardstown showpiece. Other big-race wins came on Seventh Heaven in the 2016 Irish Oaks, So You Think in the 2011 Coral-Eclipse, and the Sun Chariot Stakes on Halfway To Heaven in 2008. His 13-length victory on Septimus in the 2008 Irish St Leger enabled O’Brien to sweep up all five Irish Classic races that season, the first trainer in 73 years to accomplish the feat.
A fixture at Ballydoyle for almost three decades, he went freelance at the start of 2024 Flat season.
BERT HOLMES
Born: 1911-1962
THE WINNER of five Irish Classics, including the shock 33/1 Irish Derby winner Your Highness for English trainer Humphrey Cottrill in 1961, Henry Herbert Holmes rode for Jack Rogers and later on was stable jockey to Bob Fetherstonhaugh at Loughbrown Cottage for whom he won a 1,000 Guineas (Sunlit Ride) and Oaks (Circus Lady) in 1949. Another Oaks was landed for Bob's son Brud on Agar's Plough in 1955 following his second 1,000 Guineas on the Atty Persee-trained Queen Of Sheba in 1951. He died November 16th 1962, aged 51.
COLIN KEANE
Born: Co Meath, 1994
THE SIX-TIME champion jockey was at his brilliant best when guiding the Dermot Weld-trained Tarnawa to victory in the 2020 Breeders' Cup Turf at Keeneland and the Trim rider looks destined to dine at racing's top table. Four years later he brought the Ger Lyons-trained Magnum Force with a beautiful late run in the Juvenile Turf Sprint for a second career winner in the 2024 Breeders' Cup at Del Mar.
There were some questions posed across the Irish sea when he was parachuted into the saddle for the plum ride on Ralph Beckett's Westover in the 2022 Irish Derby but the ice-cool jockey had seven lengths to spare at the finishing line, giving him his first win in the Curragh Classic.
Rode his first winner, trained by his father Gerry, on No Trimmings at Dundalk in 2010 and landed a first senior jockeys' title in 2017 (100 winners), riding mainly for Lyons who he joined in the summer of 2014 as an apprentice. Rode 54 winners in that first season when crowned champion apprentice, having finished runner-up to Connor King the previous year.
Partnered his first Group One winner on the Tony Martin-trained Laganore in Rome in 2017 and his first Group One for Lyons when Siskin landed the Phoenix Stakes at the Curragh in 2019. Shortly afterwards they combined to win the first £1m handicap to be run on the Flat in Britain when Mustajeer sprang a 16/1 surprise in the Ebor at York. Broke his Royal Ascot duck on the Jessica Harirngton-trained Villanova Queen (2023), and a second followed in 2024 when Crystal Black gave his father a career highlight in the Duke of Edinburgh Stakes.
Siskin gave him and Lyons their first Classic victory in the Irish 2,000 Guineas in 2020 and a second that summer with the filly Even So in the Irish Oaks. A second Irish 2,000 Guineas came on Field Of Gold in 2025 and the John and Thady Gosden-trained colt produced a scintillating turn of foot a few weeks later to land the St James's Palace Stakes at Royal Ascot, prompting the jockey to announce that he was the best he'd ever sat on.
Rode his first Group One winner for Aidan O'Brien on Broome in the 2021 Grand Prix de Saint-Cloud. Other Group One wins came on the Johnny Murtagh-trained Champers Elysee (2020 Matron Stakes) and the Noel Meade-trained Helvic Dream (2021 Tattersalls Gold Cup).
Won his second jockeys' title in 2020 (100 winners) and rewrote the record books the following year with a record 141 winners to claim his third crown, riding his 100th winner on Barretta at Navan to beat the fastest century of winners on the Flat set by Joseph O'Brien in 2013. Retained his crown in 2022 (92 winners) after a ding-dong battle with Billy Lee and beat the same rival in 2023, claiming his fifth title with 92 winners. A sixth championship was secured in 2024 with 103 winners (eight ahead of Billy Lee), including two Group One victories on Babouche (Phoenix Stakes) and White Birch (Tattersalls Gold Cup).
Rode his 1,000th winner on the Michael O'Callaghan-trained Fastnet Crown at Dundalk in 2022.
MICK KINANE
Born: Co Tipperary, 1959
MICHAEL JOSEPH Kinane's exceptional riding career can be assessed in terms of the big winners but his lasting legacy to racing is something that cannot be measured. As racing started to outgrow even its international boundaries over the last three decades of his 34-year career in the saddle so he redefined the role of a top-class jockey. At a time when Irish jockeys invariably had to travel to Britain to make their name, he decided to stay at home and do things his own way. In succeeding, he showed the way to future generations. Riders like Johnny Murtagh and Pat Smullen followed his lead and the success of such horses as Vintage Crop, in the Melbourne Cup, and Go And Go, in the Belmont Stakes, gave other Irish trainers and owners the confidence to set off in their own search of glory and rich pickings. Australia, the States, Hong Kong, France, Germany, Cananda, India, Italy: they all came alike. He would go anywhere to take on the locals on their own turf and frequently handed them a lesson in riding.
He announced his retirement in December 2009 and left the Flat scene on a high after a memorable season steering Sea The Stars to six Group One wins, including an unprecedented 2,000 Guineas-Derby-Arc treble. The 13-times Irish champion jockey took his profession onto a new level and until the arrival of Murtagh on the international scene, was the first Irish jockey to be recognised as being truly world class without being based outside the country. His victory on Dara Monarch in the 1982 St James's Palace stakes was to prove a game changer. He had won the Irish 2,000 Guineas on the the Liam Browne-trained colt a few weeks earlier and many assumed that, as was standard practice at the time, he would be replaced by a British-based jockey at Royal Ascot. But connections stuck with him and were duly rewarded. It was a hurgely important moment in not just his career but for all Irish-based jockeys.
His big international breakthrough came in October 1989 when on consecutive days he won the Cartier Million on The Caretaker and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on Carroll House. Just a year later Kinane and his long-time retainer, Dermot Weld, stunned American racing by winning the Belmont Stakes with Go And Go. Owes much of his success to Weld; capturing his maiden title in his first season as stable jockey at Rosewell House in 1984.
Re-wrote the record books in 1993 by notching 115 wins in Ireland, giving him a ninth championship and eclipsing the previous mark of 113 which he had shared with Christy Roche. Remarkably, he achieved this after missing the first two months of the season because of riding commitments in Hong Kong. His 1993 success on the Henry Cecil-trained Commander In Chief, his first Epsom Derby, was a huge milestone in his development.
Has ridden 14 Irish Classic winners, including two wins in Ireland's premier race, the Budweiser Irish Derby, on Galileo (2001) and High Chaparral (2002), and 10 English. His 14-year association with Weld hit an unforgettable high when Vintage Crop became the first horse outside Australia or New Zealand to win the Melbourne Cup in 1993. At the time the victory was described as the greatest achievement ever in international racing and capped an incredible year for Kinane, who also captured the Eclipse on Opera House. He also became only the second jockey to achieve the Epsom Derby/Arc/Melbourne Cup treble - Pat Glennon being the other.
Landed his 11th title in 1999 riding for Aidan O'Brien and his main patrons, John Magnier and Michael Tabor. Highlights were their domination of the juvenile division both at home and abroad, and Europe's champion sprinter Stravinsky. For good measure he booted home his second Arc winner, Montjeu (owned by Tabor), for French trainer John Hammond. That colt gave him his third King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes victory in 2000.
Things were to get even better in 2001 when he enjoyed by far the best season of his career with prestigious victories in the Epsom Oaks (Imagine), the Epsom and Irish Derbys (Galileo), the King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes (Galileo), the Doncaster St Leger (Milan) and the Breeders' Cup Juvenile (Johannesburg). A highly rewarding 2002 season - which included two Irish Classic wins on Rock Of Gibraltar (2,000 Guineas) and High Chaparral (Derby) - was capped with the victory of High Chaparral in the Breeders' Cup Turf. Rode his seventh century of winners on his way to clinching his 13th domestic title in 2003 which featured another Breeders' Cup Turf victory on High Chaparral.
Joined the John Oxx stable in 2004, the partnership enjoying great success with Azamour (2004 St James's Palace Stakes, 2004 Irish Champion Stakes, 2005 King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes). Was the human star of Royal Ascot at York (2005), emerging as top jockey at the meeting for the fourth time, and the first time since 1996, with six winners. Wins on Henrythenavigator, Yeats and Mahler in 2007 brought his total Royal Ascot score to 41, leaving him at the time as the most successful Royal Ascot jockey still riding. He was top jockey at the Royal meeting four times.
Landed his 14th Irish Classic in the St Leger on Alandi in 2009 and his 10th English Classic on the equine superstar Sea The Stars, who became the first horse since Nashwan in 1989 to complete the Epsom Derby-Newmarket 2,000 Guineas double in 2009, just two weeks short of his 50th birthday. Better was to follow when the colt became only the fifth horse since 1900 and the first since Nashwan in 1989 to complete the Eclipse, Derby and 2,000 Guineas treble. His third Arc win soon followed on Sea The Stars when the jockey was in the twilight of a phenomenal career that saw him amass 2,363 winners.
He retired at the end of that 2009 season and is currently working for the Hong Kong Jockey Club as well as running a select but successful breeding operation at his Kildare home, where already he has produced a Derby winner in Authorized (2007).
KINANE FACTFILE
Apprenticed to: Liam Browne.
First winner: Muscari, Leopardstown, March 19th, 1975.
Breeders' Cup winners (3): Johannesburg (2001 Breeders' Cup Juvenile); High Chaparral (2002 and 2003 Breeders' Turf).
King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes winners (5): Belmez (1990), King's Theatre (1994), Montjeu (2000), Galileo (2001), Azamour (2005).
Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe winners (3): Carroll House (1989); Montjeu (1999) and See The Stars (2009).
Melbourne Cup winner: Vintage Crop (1993).
English Classic winners (10): Tirol (1990 2,000 Guineas), Commander In Chief (1993 Epsom Derby), Entrepeneur (1997 2,000 Guineas), King Of Kings (1998 2,000 Guineas), Shahtoush (1998 Epsom Oaks), Imagine (2001 Epsom Oaks), Galileo (2001 Epsom Derby), Milan (2001 St Leger), Sea The Stars (2009 2,000 Guineas); Sea The Stars (2009 Epsom Derby).
Irish Classic winners (14): Dara Monarch (1982 2,000 Guineas), Flash Of Steel (1986 2,000 Guineas), Trusted Partner (1988 1,000 Guineas), Alydaress (1989 Oaks), Vintage Crop (1993 and 1994 St Legers), Dance Design (1996 Oaks); Galileo (2001 Derby); Rock Of Gibraltar (2002 Guineas); High Chaparral (2002 Derby); Yesterday (2003 1,000 Guineas); Saoire (2005 1,000 Guineas); Kastoria (2006 St Leger), Alandi (2009 St Leger).
Other Classic winners: Again Tomorrow (1985 Premio Parioli), Gay Burslem (1988 Premio Parioli), Go And Go (1990 Belmont Stakes), In A Tiff (1992 Derby Italiano), Luso (1995 Derby Italiano), Rose Gypsy (2001 French 1,000 Guineas); Landseer (2002 French 2,000 Guineas).
Irish Champion Stakes (7): Carroll House (1989), Cezanne (1994), Pilsudski (1997), Giant's Causeway (2000), High Chaparral (2003) Azamour (2004), Sea The Stars (2009).
Cartier Million winners (2): The Caretaker (1989) and Rinka Das (1990).
Champion apprentice: 1978 (46 winners).
Champion jockey (13 times): 1984 (88 winners); 1985 (105 winners); 1986 (80 winners); 1987 (86 winners); 1988 (113 winners); 1989 (112 winners); 1991 (111 winners); 1992 (100 winners); 1993 (115 winners); 1994 (84 winners); 1999 (92 winners); 2002 (79 winners); 2003 (104 winners).
Other details: Was top jockey (London Clubs Trophy) at Royal Ascot 1994, 1995, 1996 and 2005.
BILLY LEE
Born: Co Limerick, 1986.
GIVEN HIS sizable frame, Wiliam James Lee's achievements on the Flat are remarkable and have seen him become one of the most sought-after riders in the country. Already he has forged fruitful partnerships with trainers Paddy Twomey, Willie McCreery and Ken Condon, with his first two Group One victories arriving via Fieslolana (McCreery) and Romanised (Condon) in the 2014 Matron Stakes and the 2019 Prix Jacques Le Marois respectively.
He doubled that Group One tally with another pair of wins at the highest level in 2022, Twomey providing the ammunition in the shape of La Petitie Coco (Pretty Polly Stakes) and Pearls Galore (Matron Stakes). It would be hard to imagine things getting better for the pair but a double at the Curragh in September 2023 in the Group Two Beresford Stakes (Deepone) and the Goffs Million (One Look) earned the partnership prize-money of €688,000. A Group One victory on Moss Tucker in the Flying Five Stake for trainer Condon was another highlight for the Ballingarry pilot.
His mother Edwina Finn holds a training licence under rules as well as in point-to-points and it came as no surprise that he excelled on the pony racing circuit. An hilarious footage on YouTube featuring the youngster participating in the 1994 Castletown Donkey Derby amassed over a million views and is a must see.
Riding out for Tommy Stack during school holidays, he joined the yard as an apprentice in 2002, partnering his first winner on the Stack-trained Zeno at Sligo the same year. A first Group success came on the stable's Pollen in the Group Three Park Express Stakes in 2010, and the black type races have flowed ever since with the likes of Space Traveller (2019 Clipper Logistics Boomerang Stakes), Le Petit Coco (2021 Blandford Stakes), Vespertillio (2023 Debutante Stakes), Just Beautiful (2023 Lanawades Stud Stake), Pearls Galore (2022 Lanawades Stud Stakes), Romanised (2019 Minstrel Stakes), Gordon Lord Byron (2016 Minstrel Stakes) and Devonshire (2016 Lanawades Stud Stakes).
After an epic battle with Colin Keane, he finished runner-up to his great rival - 92 winners to 89 - in the Flat Jockeys' Championship in 2022. Was runner-up again to Keane, riding 74 winners, in 2023 and repeated the feat in 2024 with 95 wins. Reached a career milestone when celebrating his 1,000 Irish winner on Yellowstone at Dundalk in 2025 (992 Flat and 8 jumps).
Has ridden four winners at Royal Ascot; the Joanna Morgan-trained Roca Tumu (2013 Britannia Handicap), Settle For Bay for David Marnane in the 2018 Royal Hunt Cup, Ascending in the Ascot Stakes (2025) for Heny De Bromhead and the Paddy Twomey-trained Carmers in the Queen's Vase (2025).
WAYNE LORDAN
Born: Co Cork, 1982
RACING IS a tough game . . . just ask Wayne Lordan. The Innishannon rider suffered fractures to his legs and elbow, as well as a nasty cut to his arm, when unshipped from the ill-fated, Aidan O'Brien-trained San Antonio in the 2023 Irish Derby that left him sidelined for eight months. Less than two years later the 43-year-old delivered a sublime ride to provide the Ballydoyle trainer with a record-extending 11th winner in the 2025 Betfred Derby at Epsom.
As big winners go it probably just pipped his success on Iridessa - trained by Aidan's son Joseph - the only European-based winner of the two-day Breeders' Cup meeting at Santa Anita in 2019. Her narrow success in the Filly and Mare Turf was a fourth at the highest level and Lordan had been in the plate for each victory (2019 Matron Stakes; 2019 Pretty Polly Stakes; 2018 Fillies' Mile).
His first winner was Ethbaat for trainer Gerry Cully at Killarney in 1998. His best season on the Flat was 2012 with 64 winners. Blairmayne, trained by Natalia Lupini, gave him his 1,000th winner at Naas in 2023. Although associated in his early career with David Wachman and Tommy Stack, he teamed up with Eddie Lynam to great effect, landing a first Group One winner on the 100/1 shot Sole Power in the 2010 Nunthorpe Stakes at York, the longest-priced winner of a British Group One in 35 years. Another Lynam horse, Slade Power, gave him even greater success, winning three top-class sprints in the British Champion Sprint Stakes (2013), Royal Ascot's Diamond Jubilee Stakes (2014) and the July Cup (2014).
With the retirement of Wachman at the end of the 2016 season, he joined Aidan O'Brien's impressive roster of jockeys and achieved his first Classic success aboard Winter in Newmarket's 1,000 Guineas in 2017, coming home a couple of lengths clear of her more fancied stablemate Rhododendron. Two years later he added to his role of honour with Hermosa in the same Classic. Other big-race wins for Ballydoyle came on Scandanavia (2025 Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup), Lake Victoria (2024 Moyglare Stakes), Magical (2020 Tattersalls Gold Cup) and Hydrangea (2017 Matron Stakes), a race he also won on Wachman's Legatissimo in 2015. Other notable wins were Waterville in the 2022 Irish Cesarewitch and Surdirman in the Keeneland Phoenix Stakes in 2013. His four other Royal Ascot winners are Lolly For Dolly (2011), Duntle (2012 and 2013) and Age Of Kings (2023).
KEVIN MANNING
Born: Kilsallaghan, Co Dublin, 1967
AT 5ft 10in, Kevin James Manning was one of the tallest (and probably one of the most popular) jockeys in the weighroom, but he rose to the challenge of a constant battle with the scales to establish himself as one of the best jockeys in the country, thanks mainly to the efforts of his father-in-law, trainer Jim Bolger (see leading Irish trainers down the years).
Rode his first winner, Keynes, at the Curragh on April 23rd, 1983 and was attached to the Bolger stable for all his professional life before retiring. He is married to Bolger's daughter, Una, and has two kids, Clare (who manages the family's Boherguy Stud in Co Kildare) and James. Was crowned Champion Apprentice in 1984 (18 winners) and 1987 (33 winners). Took over as number one jockey in 1993 when Christy Roche left to join Aidan O'Brien at Ballydoyle.
An overdue Classic success came in 2002 when 33/1 shot Margarula, the longest price winner in the history of the race, won the Darley Irish Oaks at the Curragh. Seven more British and Irish Classics were to follow on Finsceal Beo in the English and Irish 1,000 Guineas in 2007, a career highlight victory on New Approach in the 2008 Vodafone Epsom Derby, Dawn Approach (2013 English 2,000 Guineas), Trading Leather (2013 Irish Derby), Pleasach (2015 Irish 1,000 Guineas), Poetic Flare (2021 English 2,000 Guineas).
Other fruitful associations came on Teofilio (unbeaten champion two-year-old, including the National and Dewhurst Stakes 2006), Eva Luna (who provided him with his first Group One success in the Phoenix Stakes, 1994), Perfect Imposter, Dazzling Park, Alexander Goldrun (whom he partnered to five Group One wins, including the 2004 Hong Kong Cup), Dawn Approach (2013 St James's Palace Stake) and Poetic Flare (2021 St James's Palace Stakes).
Broke his Royal Ascot - where he rode a six winners - duck on Cuis Ghaire (Albany Stakes) in 2008 and Lush Lashes put the icing on the cake when landing the Group 1 Coronation Stakes on the same afternoon. The filly went on to take the Group 1 Yorkshire Oaks and was the first leg of a remarkable Group 1 double at Leopardstown in September 2008 when she preceded New Approach's Irish Champion Stakes victory with a win in the Matron Stakes. New Approach's success in the Emirates Champion Stakes at Newmarket put the seal on a phenomonal 2008 season for the jockey and a wonderful afternoon. Just 35 minutes earlier Intense Focus had given him a third win on the trot in the Darley Dewhurst Stakes (a race Bolger and Manning combined to win a total of five times with Teofilo, New Approach, Intense Focus, Parish Hall and Dawn Approach). Group One doubles do not come much bigger.
Announced his retirement from race-riding after victory on Vocal Studies at Galway in 2022. His 40-year career in the saddle included 36 Group One victories and over 1,600 winners. His most wins (81) in an Irish season came in 1994.
GEORGE McGRATH
Born: Lucan, Co Dublin, 1943-2022
SERVING his time with Clonee trainer Kevin Kerr from 1958-63, George Francis McGrath was champion apprentice on two occasions (1961 and 1962), riding his first winner, Restore, at Baldoyle in 1960. Joined the Seamus McGrath - no relation - Glencairn stable in 1965, ending up the season as champion jockey with 44 winners.
His second title was secured in 1970 (53 winners), the same year he rode his first Irish Classic winner, Allangrange, in the St Leger. However, his crowning success came in the 1973 Irish Derby on Weavers' Hall, while further Classic honours were secured in the Irish 2,000 Guineas with Furry Glen (1974) and the legendary Sadler's Wells (1984), trained by Vincent O'Brien whom he developed an association with in the early 80s.
He also won the Joe McGrath Memorial Stakes - now Irish Champion Stakes - in 1980 for O'Brien on Gregorian, and in the same year registered his only win at Royal Ascot on the Paddy Prendergast Jr-trained Cooliney Prince in the Windsor Castle Stakes.
During his time with Seamus McGrath, he enjoyed some big-race victories on such quality performers as Ballad Rock and Bog Road, and rode the winners of just about every major Flat race in Ireland. The pair combined to win the Pretty Polly Stakes with Messene in 1965, the 1971 Phoenix Stakes with Celtic Twilight - a race he won as an apprentice in 1962 on Kerr's Irish Chorus - and the 1974 National Stakes with Reap The Wind. He also won four races on the brilliant Levmoss before the champion stayer's shock victory over Park Top in the 1969 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe under Australian jockey Bill Williamson.
Worked as Luca Cumani's principal work rider for several years and was a starter in the UAE after retiring from race-riding. Son George served as chief executive of the National Association of Racing Staff in Britain. Georgie, as he was affectionately known, died aged 79 at his family home in Esker Cottages in July, 2022, and was buried after a funeral service in his local parish church of St Mary's in Lucan, Co Dublin.
DYLAN BROWNE McMONAGLE
Born: Co Donegal, 2003
LETTERKENNY'S Dylan Browne McMonagle was crowned Champion Flat Jockey (riding 95 winners) in 2025 for the first time as his rollercoaster ride to the top shows no signs of slowing down. Champion Apprentice in 2021 and again in 2022, he flew in from America to collect his trophy at the Curragh racecourse after partnering the Willie Mullins-trained 25/1 outsider Ethical Diamond to a stunning victory in the $5million Longines Breeders' Cup Turf at Del Mar in California.
Highlight of his domestic season was the Group One Comer Group International Irish St Leger victory on the Joseph O'Brien-trained Al Riffa. Other significant wins came in the Group Two Michael John Kennedy Curragh Cup on the same horse and multiple Group Three successes throughout the year on the likes of Goodie Two Shoes, Princess Child, Gregarina, Honey Girll, Caroline Street, Sons and Lovers and Wemightakedlongway.
Cut his teeth on the pony racing circuit - won the Dingle Derby twice and two national pony racing championships - before joining O'Brien as a 16-year-old apprentice in 2019, riding his first winner on the trainer's Jumellea at Navan later on that same year. Other Group One winners came on Al Riffa (2022) and Scorthy Champ (2024), both in the Goffs Vincent O'Brien National Stakes. Won an HRI Emerging Talent Award in 2021, as well as five Ulster boxing titles and an National boxing title at 39kgs.
MARTIN MOLONY
Born: Co Limerick, 1925-2017
MARTIN John Molony was not only a great jump jockey but also a top-class rider on the Flat. Apprenticed to Martin Hartigan, he returned to Ireland at the outbreak of the Second World War, riding his first winner on the George Harris-trained Chitor at the Curragh (1939) on only his third ride at the age of 14. On the level he won the Irish 1,000 Guineas on Princess Trudy (1950); the Irish 2,000 Guineas on Signal Box (1951) - on whom he finished third to Arctic Prince in the Epsom Derby - and the Irish Oaks on Desert Drive (1947). He was also third in the Epsom Oaks on Stella Polaris (1950).
His exploits over jumps were remarkable with three victories in the Irish Grand National (Knight's Crest 1944, Golden View 11 1946 and Dominick's Bar 1950) and a Cheltenham Gold Cup success on Silver Fame (1951). However, statistics give no clue to the greatness of the man.
A fearless rider, he retired from race-riding at the age of 26 after a horrific fall at Thurles on Bursary (1951) left him with a badly fractured skull. His six Irish titles were gained between 1946-1951, while he finished runner-up to his elder brother, Tim, in the British jump jockeys' table 1949-50. His record of riding 186 winners (in Ireland, Britain and US) in 1949 was amazing and his record number of jumps winners (94) in a year stood until Charlie Swan broke it in 1992. He would continue to forge a career out of breeding, buying and selling horses. He bought Bula, who went on to win the Champion Hurdle in 1971 and 1972, as an unbroken three-year-old for 1,380gns at the Goffs sale. He died aged 91 in 2017.
JOANNA MORGAN
Born: Wales, October 19, 1953.
FROM A trail-blazing jockey to a Royal Ascot-winning trainer, Joanna Morgan has successfully turned her hand to several different roles throughout her distinguished career in racing. She made history by becoming the first woman to ride professionally at Royal Ascot - finishing ninth in the Queen's Vase on Gallowshill Boy in 1978 - and as a young apprentice was the first woman to ride in the Irish Derby in 1976 on Riot Helmet for her progressive-thinking boss Seamus McGrath.
A true pioneer of racing, she was also the first female jockey to ride a winner as a professional in Ireland and the first woman jockey to beat Lester Piggott on the racetrack at the now defunct Phoenix Park racecourse in 1976. She never rode a Group winner in her adopted country but enjoyed notable successes in some of the country's premier handicaps, including an Irish Linclonshire on Yankees Princess (1983), Rockingham Handicap (Baby Brew 1979), McDonogh Handicap (Move On Wag 1977), Irish Cambridgeshire (The Bower 1995), Joe McGrath Handicap (Nordic Oak 1994), Leopardstown November Handicap (Rogerdor 1995) and Naas November Handicap (Lainntod 1977).
She rode over 200 winners - and raced on five continents - before launching her training career - although she continued to ride - in 1985 and enjoyed her greatest success when saddling Roca Tumu to land the Brittannia Handicap Stakes at Royal Ascot in 2013. Other good horses she handled from her base at Portlester Stud in Co Meath were One Won One, winner of 13 races including the 2002 Group Three Phoenix Sprint Stakes, Obama Rule (2010 Group Three Dance Design Stakes), Moran Gra (2013 Irish Cambridgeshire), Lough Gem, Dbest, Fourpenny Lane, Raise Your Heart and Miss Gorcia.
In 2014, she was awarded the Hall of Fame at The Irish Times, Irish Sports Council Sportswoman of the Year awards.
JACK MOYLAN
Born: Co Cork, 1898-1949
SERVING his apprenticeship in England with P F Hartigan, John 'Jack' Moylan returned to Ireland after serving as a cavalryman in France during WW1 and was successfully associated with the Ronnie Moss stable. Equally efficient over jumps as he was on the Flat, he finished second on Fly Mask in the 1924 Aintree Grand National. Leading jockey in Ireland in 1926, he won seven Irish Classics including a 1,000 Guineas on Resplendent (1926); a 2,000 Guineas on Slide On (1944, dead-heating with Good Morning); two back-to-back Derbys on Slide On (1944) and Picadilly (1945); one Oaks on Avoca (1944) and two St Legers on Skoiter (1939) and Cassock (1946). With the exception of Resplendent (Atty Persse), all his Classic winners were trained by Bob Fetherstonhaugh.
He was a grandfather (daughter Josephine married Jimmy Eddery) of 11-times British champion flat jockey Pat Eddery, who died November 10th, 2015, aged 63, Moylan died September 1949 and in 2013 was honoured with a plaque in the town centre of Churchtown, Co Cork.
JIMMY MULLANE
Born: Co Cork, 1935-2019
A NATIVE of Mallow, Jimmy Mullane was joint champion apprentice in 1950 (sharing the title with Pat 'Mutt' Conlon with 17 winners) and went on to become Champion Flat Jockey in 1951 and 1952. Nicknamed 'Corky', he rode for legendary trainer Paddy Prendergast for whom he won the Irish Derby on Thirteen Of Diamonds in 1952 and the Irish Oaks on Five Spot the same year. He also won the Irish 2,000 Guineas on Arctic Wind for Mickey Rogers in 1954.
Was regarded as an exceptional rider of two-year-olds. Prendergast trained seven consecutive winners of the Phoenix Stakes between 1950 and 1956 and Mullane rode three of them - Windy City (1951), Royal Duchy (1952) and Refined (1956). Other big wins came on Blue Butterfly in the National Stakes and Stackallen Bridge in the Railway Stakes, both trained by Prendergast, in 1951. Sunny Streak (1953 Royal Whip), Thirteen Of Diamonds (1952 Blandford Stakes), Standing Holly (1954 Greenland Stakes), Pronounced (19501,000 Guineas Trial) and Clear Round (1958 Irish Lincoln) were other good winners.
He moved to the north of England in 1960 and enjoyed some success but his riding career was ended by a road accident in 1974. His fortunes didn't get much better and he spent years living in a caravan on a convent before being evicted by the nuns. He subsequently lived in a tent in a Hampshire wood before returning to Ireland. Predeceased by his wife Nancy, he died at Cork University Hospital in 2019, aged 84.
TOMMY MURPHY
Born: Co Wexford, 1936-2025
CHAMPION IRISH Flat jockey in 1978 at the age of 42 with 66 wins, Tommy Murphy rode two Irish Classic winners for Vincent O'Brien who was quick to recognise his exceptional talents and launched his career to heights that seemed improbable during an eight-year stint in Britain. When the great Lester Piggott was committed to riding in England he rode the Ballydoyle horses at home and in France. He partnered Lady Capulet to victory in the 1977 1,000 Guineas and also won the St Leger on Transworld later on that season. Was also associated with some of the trainer's greatest horses, including Group One winners Cloonlara (1976 Heinz 57 Phoenix Stakes) and Storm Bird (1980 Natioanal Stakes) and Alleged.
Other notable winners for the stylish jockey were Pianissimo (1969 Heinz 57 Phoenix Stakes), Saritamer (1974 Greenlands Stakes), King Pellinore (1975 Gallinule Stakes), Meneval (1976 Gallinule Stakes), Muscovite (1980 Ballycorus Stakes), Claire's Slipper (1977 Pretty Polly Stakes), Solar (1978 Railway Stakes), Lawmaker (1980 Railway Stakes), Muscovite (1980 International Stakes), Nantequous (1976 International Stakes), Springhill (1977 Scurry Handicap), Lady Matador (1965 Curragh Stakes), Opachisco (1980 Golden Pages Handicap), Super Anna (1973 McDonogh Handicap), Be My Guest (1977 Desmond Stakes), Storm Bird (1980 Anglesey Stakes), Solinus (1977 Anglesey Stakes), Accomplice (1978 Futurity Stakes), Calandra (1980 Matron Stakes), All Serene (1976 CL Weld Park Stakes), Turkish Treasure (1977 CL Weld Park Stakes), Afghan (1981 Birdcatcher Nursery), Huguenot (1979 Beresford Stakes), Gonzales (1980 Blandford Stakes), Monroe (1980 Ballyogan Stakes), Solinus (1978 Ballyogan Stakes), Godswalk (1977 Ballyogan Stakes), Boone's Cabin (1975 Ballyogan Stakes).
Stayed on as assistant to O'Brien after his retirement from the saddle in 1981, and was there up until the trainer's retirement in 1994. Spent eight years in England after serving his apprenticeship with Milo Walshe, riding his first winner on the trainer's Fabrice in the Blackrock Apprentices' Plate at the Phoenix Park in 1954. Returned to Ireland in 1964 to work for Co Meath handler Clem Magnier where he remained for ten years, partnering many Flat and National Hunt winners. Was equally effective over jumps, winning the 1972 Gloucestershire Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival on the Christy Grassick-trained Noble Life, and also partnered two Galway Hurdle winners, Dictora (1970) and Hardboy (1972).
His final winner was Lords at Leopardstown in 1981. Died aged 88 in 2025.
JOHNNY MURTAGH
Born: Co Meath, 1970
DURING an outstanding career as a big-race jockey, Johnny Murtagh can boast a full collection of Irish Classics (15 in total) to add to his six British and two French, as well as victories in many of the most prestigious races in Europe and the world, including the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe and Breeders' Cup.
The product of the Racing Apprentice Centre of Education (RACE), he was champion apprentice in 1989 (34 winners) riding for John Oxx, who also guided him to three senior jockeys' titles (1998, 1996 and 1995). Among career highs were his three victories in the Epsom Derby on Sinndar (2000), High Chaparral (2002) and Motivator (2005). Probably his best season was in 2000 when Sinndar's Epsom win was followed by a nine-length romp in the Irish equivalent. The colt went on to land the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on a day that saw Murtagh achieve a unique treble of Group 1 wins with Namid (Prix de l'Abbaye) and Petrushka (Prix Diane). A fortnight later he landed another Group 1 success on Kalanisi in the Dubai Champion Stakes, followed by Dilshaan's victory in the Racing Post Trophy and another Grade 1 win on Kalanisi in the Breeders' Cup Turf - his 12th Group 1 win of a remarkable season.
Gained a second win in the Irish Derby on Alamshar and his first in the King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes on the same colt in 2003. A hat-trick of King Georges was secured on the Aidan O'Brien-trained pair Dylan Thomas (2007) and Duke Of Marmalade (2008). The German-trained Novellist gave him a fourth victory in 2013.
Hit the international big time in 1995 with the success of Ridgewood Pearl in the Breeders' Cup Mile at Belmont Park. That season proved another remarkable one with the filly also landing Royal Ascot's Coronation Stakes and the Emirates Prix du Moulin de Longchamp. It was ample compensation for his earlier decision to remain loyal to Oxx's main patron, the Aga Khan (owner of Sinndar), when giving up the winning ride in the Irish 1,000 Guineas on Mrs Anne Coughlan's filly to partner Khaytada.
Registered his first Irish 2,000 Guineas success in 2001 on the Aidan O'Brien-trained Black Minnaloushe, who went on to give him victory in the St James's Palace Stakes. The Irish Oaks has proved a happy hunting ground with back-to-back wins on Ebadiyla (1997) and Winona (1998) and more glory was to follow in that Classic on Petrushka (2000) - who went on to land the Yorkshire Oaks - Peeping Fawn (2007), Moonstone (2008) and the French-trained Chicquita (2013). Other career highlights were his five victories in Royal Ascot's Gold Cup on Enzeli (1999), Royal Rebel (2001 and 2002) and Yeats (2008 and 2009) and his first British 2,000 Guineas on Rock Of Gibraltar (2002).
A fruitful partnership with the filly Timarida also yielded four big successes (Prix de l'Opera 1995; E P Taylor Stakes 1995; Irish Champion Stakes 1996; Beverly D Stakes 1996 and the Grosser Dallmayr Preis-Bayerisches Zuchtrennen 1996). His association with trainer James Fanshawe also produced some notable successes with the outstanding mare Soviet Song. He also had a successful spell with Michael Stoute.
Rode his first Group One winner on Manntari in the 1993 National Stakes, a race he also secured on Sinndar (1999) and Mastercraftsman (2008).
Finished leading jockey at Royal Ascot 2001, 2002, 2008, 2009 and 2013 where his career total is 43 (including four Group One victories in 2008 on Haradasun, Henrythenavigator, Duke Of Marmalade and Yeats).
Is the first to acknowledge the important role Oxx and the Aga Khan played when his battle against spiralling weight threatened his career in the early 90s, but relinquished his cherished job with the Currabeg trainer in November 2003. Embarked on a spell riding over hurdles in 2005 to maintain his fitness and weight levels and enjoyed his first success over the sticks on Game Ball Ali at Punchestown (2005).
Was appointed as number one rider to Aidan O'Brien and the Coolmore operation in January 2008 and the partnership got off to a flying start when Henrythenavigator romped to victory in both the 2008 English and Irish 2,000 Guineas as well as the James's Palace Stakes and Sussex Stakes. Bushranger's (trained by David Wachman) victory in the that season's Shadwell Middle Park Stakes was his 19th Group 1 victory of a phenomenal season.
Completed a rare Irish Classic double the following season on Mastercraftsman (2,000 Guineas) and Again (1,000 Guineas), becoming only the third rider - and the first since Joe Canty in 1946 - to do so. Martin Quirke achieved the same feat in 1929. Landed three out of three Irish Classics in 2009 when Fame And Glory ran out a wide-margin winner of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, as well as victories in the Queen Elizabeth ll Stakes (Rip Van Winkle), Sussex Stakes (Rip Van Winkle), Ascot Gold Cup (Yeats giving him his fifth win in the race) and the St James's Palace Stakes (Mastercraftsman). The 2010 season, his last as first jockey to the powerful Ballydoyle stable, saw him land a fourth Irish Derby on the O'Brien-trained Cape Blanco, along with 10 other Group One successes.
Roderic O'Connor's victory in the Criterium International was his last Group One winner for Coolmore before renewing his association with John Oxx and the Aga Khan (marked by the victory of the Jean-Claude Rouget-trained Valyra in the 2012 Prix de Diane at Chantilly), as well as riding for the Michael Halford yard. In total, he carried the Aga Khan's famous royal green and red silks to 16 Group One successes around the world.
Four more Classics were to follow (Dancing Rain, 2011 Epsom Oaks, Jukebox Jury, 2011 Irish St Leger, Valyra, 2012 French Oaks and Chicquita, 2013 Irish Oaks), as well as numerous Group One wins, before he announced his retirement from race-riding in 2014. The Meathman was Irish champion jockey five times and was widely regarded as one of the greatest riders of the modern era, partnering over 100 Group One winners for some of the sports legendary handlers. He now trains successfully from his base at Fox Covert Stable on the Curragh, where he enjoyed a first Classic win with Sonnyboyliston in the Irish St Leger (2021) as well as two Ebor wins at York (Mutual Regard 2014; Sonnyboyliston 2021) and winners at Royal Asoct (Create Belief 2021) and Glorious Goodwood (Ottoman Emperor 2021).
MURTAGH FACTFILE
Name: Murtagh, John Patrick
Born: May 14, 1970.
First winner: Chicago Style, Limerick, July 6, 1987.
Irish Classic wins (15): Derby (2000 Sinndar, 2003 Alamshar; 2009 Fame And Glory, 2010 Cape Blanco); Oaks (1997 Ebadiyla, 1998 Winona, 2000 Petrushka, 2007 Peeping Fawn; 2008 Moonstone, 2013 Chicquita); 2,000 Guineas (2001 Black Minnaloushe, 2008 Henrythenavigator; 2009 Mastercraftsman); 1,000 Guineas (2009 Again); St Leger (2011 Jukebox Jury).
British Classic wins (6): Vodafone Derby (2000 Sinndar, 2002 High Chaparral, 2005 Motivator); Oaks (2011 Dancing Rain); 2,000 Guineas (2002 Rock Of Gibraltar and 2008 Henrythenavigator).
French Classic wins (2): Yeats (2008 St Leger); Valyra (2012 Oaks).
Breeders' Cup wins (3): Ridgewood Pearl (1995 Breeders' Cup Mile); Kalanisi (2000 Breeders' Turf); Man of Iron (2009 Breeders' Cup Marathon).
King George V1 and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes wins (4): Alamshar (2003); Dylan Thomas (2007); Duke Of Marmalade (2008); Novellist (2013).
Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe win: Sinndar (2000).
Other Group 1 wins: National Stakes (1993 Manntari), Prix de l'Opera (1995 Timarida), Moulin de Longchamp (1995 Ridgewood Pearl), Matron Stakes (1995 Timarida), Coronation Stakes (1995 Ridgewood Pearl), Yorkshire Oaks (1996 Key Change), Irish Champion Stakes (1996 Timarida), Beverly D Stakes (1996 Timarida), Bayerisches Zuchtrennen (1996 Timarida), Moyglare Stud Stakes (1998 Ebadilya), National Stakes (1999 Sinndar), Gold Cup (1999 Enzeli), Yorkshire Oaks (2000 Petrushka), Racing Post Trophy (2000 Dilshaan), Prix de l'Opera (2000 Petrushka), Hong Kong Vase (2000 Daliapour), Champion Stakes (2000 Kalanisi), Breeders' Cup Turf (2000 Kalanisi), Bayerisches Zuchtrennen (2000 Greek Dance), Prix de l'Abbaye (2000 Namid), St James's Palace Stakes (2001 Black Minnaloushe), Gold Cup (2001 Royal Rebel), E P Taylor Stakes (2001 Choc Ice), Gold Cup (2002 Royal Rebel), Prix du Cadran (2002 Give Notice), Golden Jubilee (2003 Choisir), BGC Sussex Stakes (2004 Soviet Song), Matron Stakes (2004 Soviet Song), July Cup (2004 Frizzante), Falmouth Stakes (2004 Soviet Song), Falmouth Stakes (2005 Soviet Song), Yorkshire Oaks (2007 Peeping Fawn), Vermeille (2007 Mrs Lindsay), Nassau Stakes (2007 Peeping Fawn), Tattersalls Gold Cup (2007 Notnowcato), Golden Jubilee (2007 Soldier's Tale), Falmouth Stakes (2007 Simply Perfect), Fillies Mile (2007 Listen), Prix Vermeille (2007 Mrs Lindsay); Prix Ganay (2008 Duke Of Marmalade), Tattersalls Gold Cup (2008 Duke Of Marmalade), Coronation Cup (2008 Soldier Of Fortune), Queen Anne Stakes (2008 Haradasun), St James's Palace Stakes (2008 Henrythenavigator), Prince of Wales's Stakes (2008 Duke Of Marmalade), Gold Cup (2008 Yeats), Coral-Eclipse (2008 Mount Nelson), Blue Square Nassau Stakes (2008 Halfway To Heaven), Phoenix Stakes (2008 Mastercraftsman), Sussex Stakes (2008 Henrythenavigator), Juddmonte International (2008 Duke Of Marmalade), Prix Morny (2008 Bushranger); National Stakes (2008 Mastercraftsman); Shadwell Middle Park Stakes (2008 Bushranger); St Jame's Palace Stakes (2009 Mastercraftsman); Gold Cup (2009 Yeats); Sussex Stakes (2009 Rip Van Winkle); Racing Post Trophy (2009 St Nicholas Abbey); Prix de l'Abbaye (2009 Total Gallery); Coronation Cup (2010 Fame And Glory); Coronation Stakes (2010 Lillie Langtry); Golden Jubilee Stakes (2010 Starspangledbanner); International Stakes (2010 Rip Van Winkle); Matron Stakes (2010 Lillie Langtry); Phoenix Stakes (2010 Zoffany); Tattersalls Gold Cup (2010 Fame And Glory); Criterium International (2010 Roderic O'Connor); Criterium de St Cloud (2010 Recital); Prix Marcel Boussac (2010 Misty For Me); Cheveley Park Stakes (2011 Lightening Pearl); Cheveley Park Stakes (2012 Rhosdu Queen); Haydock Sprint Cup (2013 Gordon Lord Byron); King's Stand Stakes (2013 Sole Power); Pretty Polly Stakes (2013 Ambivalent).
Champion Irish apprentice: 1989.
Champion jockey in Ireland: 1995, 1996, 1998, 2009 and 2011.
DONNACHA O'BRIEN
Born: Co Tipperary, 1998
THE SON of serial champion trainer Aidan, Donnacha had a short but successful career as a jockey before retiring to concentrate on a training career shortly after being crowned Irish Champion Jockey for the second time in 2019 (his first title came in 2018 as well as an apprentice title in 2016). He rode four Classics winners (winning three, the English 2,000 Guineas (Saxon Warrior) and Oaks (Forever Together) and the Irish Derby (Latrobe), in the space of two months in 2018) as well as a hatful of Group Ones. His other Classic success came on board Magna Grecia (2019 English 2,000 Guineas). His first winner was on his father''s Quartz (2014) and his final success came on Noble Prize, also trained by Aidan, in 2019.
Fancy Blue gave him a first Classic win as a trainer in the 2020 French Oaks (Prix de Diane). The same filly landed the Qatar Nassau Stakes at Goodwood - his first winner in the UK - on her next start. Enjoyed his first Royall Ascot success in the 2023 Albany Stakes, providing Frankie Dettori with his 80th Royal Ascot win. The filly went on to land the Group One Juddmonte Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket in 2023, five years after he had landed the same race as a jockey on Fairyland. Porta Fortuna returned to Royal Ascot in 2024 for the Coronation Stakes, pulling a length clear of Opera Singer, trained by his father.
JOSEPH O’BRIEN
Born: Co Tipperary, 1993
ELDEST SON of Ballydoyle trainer Aidan, Joseph Patrick O'Brien rode his first winner at the age of 16 on Johann Zoffany, trained by his father, in 2009. The following year he shared the Champion Apprentice title with Gary Carroll and Ben Curtis. In 2011, he was still only 17 when riding his first Classic winner on Roderic O'Connor in the Irish 2,000 Guineas, a race he completed a hat-trick of wins in on Power (2012) and Magician (2013).
He won the Champion Apprentice title again in 2011 and rounded off an amazing year by becoming the youngest jockey, at 18, to win a Breeders' Cup race when successful on St Nicholas Abbey in the Breeders' Cup Turf. He was Champion Jockey in 2012 and easily retained his title in 2013 when he set a new record of 126 winners in a season, comfortably eclipsing Michael Kinane's previous record. In all, he rode 518 winners and enjoyed 31 Group/Grade One winners and 10 Classics.
Combined with Aidan to become the first father and son partnership to win the Epsom Derby with Camelot in 2012. They repeated the feat just two years later when Australia won the greatest race of the flat calendar. Joseph also rode both horses to win the Irish Derby at the Curragh. His final Classic success came on Order Of St George in the Irish St Leger in 2015.
Other highlights were wins in the English 2,000 Guineas on Camelot (2012), the Grand Prix de Paris (Imperial Monarch 2012), the Dubai Sheema Classic (St Nicholas Abbey 2013), the English St Leger (Leading Light 2013) and Royal Ascot’s Gold Cup (Leading Light 2014). His final winner was Crocodile Rock, trained by Aidan, at Gowran Park in 2015.
In total he rode 518 winners, 10 Classic winners and 30 Group/Grade One winners in a six-and-a-half-year period until increasing weight problems saw him embark on what promises to be an outstanding career as a trainer from his Owning Hill stables in Co Kilkenny. Already, he has made a huge impact with two victories in the Melbourne Cup, an Irish Derby, an English St Leger and a Filly & Mare Breeders' Cup Turf (see Flat Trainer Bios).
JOSEPH O'BRIEN FACTFILE
Born: May 23rd, 1993
First winner: Johann Zoffany, Leopardstown, 2009
Final winner: Crocodile Rock, Leopardstown, 2015
Career total: 518 winners
Irish Champion Jockey: 2012 and 2013
Irish Champion Apprentice: 2010 (sharing with Gary Carroll and Ben Curtis) and 2011
Irish Classic wins (6): 2,000 Guineas (Roderic O'Connor 2011; Power 2012; Magician 2013), Derby (Camelot 2012; Australia 2014), St Leger (Order Of St George (2015)
British Classic wins (4): 2,000 Guineas (Camelot 2012), Derby (Camelot 2012; Australia 2014), St Leger (Leading Light 2013)
Breeders' Cup win: Breeders' Cup Turf (St Nicholas Abbey 2011)
Other major wins: Moyglare Stud Stakes (Maybe 2011); Tattersalls Gold Cup (So You Think 2012); Vincent O'Brien National Stakes (Gleneagles 2014; Air Force Blue 2015); Phoenix Stakes (Dick Whittington 2014; Air Force Blue 2015); Grand Prix de Paris (Imperial Monarch 2012); Ascot Gold Cup (Leading Light (2014); Coronation Cup (St Nicholas Abbey (2012 and 2013); Fillies' Mile (Together Forever 2014); International Stakes (Declaration Of War 2013; Australia 2014); Prince of Wales's Stakes (So You Think 2012); Queen Anne Stakes (Declaration Of War 2013); Queen Elizabeth ll Stakes (Excelebration 2012); Racing Post Trophy (Camelt 2011; Kingsbarns 2012); Dubai Sheema Classic (St Nicholas Abbey 2013).
COLM O'DONOGHUE
Born: Co Cork, 1980
FROM BUTTEVANT in Co Cork, Colm O'Donoghue was one of the country's leading Flat riders but has not ridden in either Ireland or Britain since the autumn of 2019. His last success came in the late Queen's colours on the Michael Stoute-trained Clarion at Newmarket in August, 2019.
Previously, he had a long and distinguished spell with trainer Aidan O'Brien before linking up with Jessica Harrington in 2016, steering Alpha Centauri to four Group One wins in 2018, including the Irish 1,000 Guineas and the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot. He won four Classics for O'Brien - the 2011 Irish Derby on Treasure Beach, 2014 Irish Oaks on Bracelet, 2015 Epsom Oaks on Qualify and the Poule d'Essai des Poulains (French 2,000 Guineas) on Astronomer Royal in 2007.
He also rode the winners of the UAE Derby (Daddy Long Legs 2012), America's Secretariat Stakes (Treasure Beach 2011) and Queen Elizabeth ll Stakes (Together 2011), Canadian International (Joshua Tree 2012), Criterium International (Jan Vermeer 2009), Prix Jacques Le Marois (Alpha Centauri 2018), Falmouth Stakes (Alpha Centauri 2018), Yorkshire Oaks (Seventh Heaven 2016), Phoenix Stakes (Spartacus 2002). His first winner was My Lorraine at Sligo, 1997, trained by O'Brien. He still rides out for the Ballydoyle trainer.
BUSTER PARNELL
Born: London, 1934-2017
CHAMPION JOCKEY in 1969 after riding 59 winners, Ryan Farnham Parnell won three Classics during his career - Atherstone Wood (1967 Irish 2,000 Guineas) and Mistigo (1968 Irish 2,000 Guineas) for Stephen Quirke, and Miralla (1975 Irish 1,000 Guineas), trained by Sir Hugh Nugent. He was born in Fulham and rode his first winner in 1950 on Luseweed at Lanark.
Apprenticed to Willie Stephenson (1949-1953), he struck up a formidale partnership with Paddy 'Darkie' Prendergast after moving to Ireland. Outside the country his biggest win came in the 1973 King Edward Vll Stakes on the Dermot Weld-trained Klairvimy at Royal Ascot. Having also ridden in Singapore, Denmark (where he was crowned champion jockey), India and South Africa, he retired from the saddle in 1986. He died in Copenhagen in 2017, aged 83. Tragically, his son David was killed in a car crash in 1990, having established himself as a top-class rider with Kevin Prendergast.
MARTIN QUIRKE
Born: Co Tipperary, 1898-1988
A QUIET and stylish rider who was especially good on two-year-olds, (E) Martin Quirke's tally of 86 Flat wins in 1923 - his one and only jockeys' title - remained a record for many years until claimed by Johnny Roe (87 winners) in 1972. Apprenticed to Senator Jim Parkinson, he also rode for Michael Dawson, Colonel Arthur J Blake and Roderick More O'Ferrall, who provided his last winner, Geraldine, at Naas in 1946.
Rode nine Irish Classic winners: a Derby on Loch Lomond 1919 (when he was still an apprentice); an Irish 1,000 Guineas on Soloptic 1929); five 2,000 Guineas (Salisbury 1929, Glannarg 1930, Museum 1935, Nearchus 1938 and Khosro 1941); two Oaks (Soloptic 1929 and Santaria 1932). Trained Jack Ketch to win the Irish 2,000 Guineas in 1957 from his Mountjoy Lodge stables.
When he retired in 1962, son Stephen (a Senior Starter with the Turf Club) successfully succeeded him as a Flat trainer, sending out three Classic winners (Irish 2,000 Guineas with Atherstone Wood 1967 and Mistigo 1968 and Irish St Leger with Parnell 1971). Stephen retired at the end of the 1979 season to become a Turf Club Official and became senior starter in 1991 when Paddy Powell retired. Martin died on October 19th, 1988, just 18 days short of his 90th birthday, while Stephen passed away suddenly October 2nd, 2001 aged 68.
CHRISTY ROCHE
Born: Co Tipperary, 1949
AUGUST 1998 marked the end of an era in Irish racing when Christy Roche, champion jockey on seven occasions (1975, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1983, 1990 and 1997), announced his retirement after 32 years in the saddle. He rode 1,740 domestic winners, a record until Michael Kinane set a new benchmark in 1999. He equalled Kinane's seasonal record of 113 wins in 1990, but his great rival later regained that distinction in 1993 (115 winners).
Apprenticed to the late P J Prendergast, he had his first ride at Baldoyle on St Patrick's Day 1966. His first winner came on Farandole at one of his favourite tracks, Leopardstown. Made an immediate impact in that first year when completing the "Autumn Double" (Irish Cambridgeshire and Irish Cesarewitch) on Willya and Say The Word. Went on to secure four apprentice titles (1967, 1968, 1969, 1970).
Twelve Irish Classic successes included three Derbys on Desert King (1997), St Jovite (1992) and Assert (1982), who he also partnered to victory in the Prix du Jockey Club (French Derby). Won the 2,000 Guineas on Desert King (1997), the filly Triptych (1985), Nikoli (1980) and Ballymore (1972) and the 1,000 Guineas on Ridgewood Pearl (1995), More So (1978) and Sarah Siddons (1976). Victories in the St Leger came on Authaal (1986) and Mistigri (1974). The Oaks was the only home Classic to elude him. Was involved in one of the biggest upsets in the history of the Epsom Derby when his mount, Secreto, short-headed favourite El Gran Senor in 1984. Jet Ski Lady was another surprise package in 1991 when storming to a runaway win in the Epsom Oaks. He rode in the Epsom Derby 12 times. As well as victory on Secreto, he finished second on St Jovite, third on Star Of Gdansk, fourth on Hawkberry, fifth on Gombos (his first Derby mount) and sixth on Mistigri.
Other victories of note abroad were the Ebor Handicap on Bonne Noel 1973; Icing (1975 Ascot Fillies' Mile); Sarah Siddons (1976 Yorkshire Oaks); Hawkberry (1976 Great Voltigeur); Pollerton (1977 Gordon Stakes); Icelandic (1978 Chester Vase); Sandy Creek (1978 William Hill Futurity Stakes - now the Racing Post Trophy); Icelandic (1979 John Porter Stakes); Pas de Seul (Prix de la Foret 1982); Alydar's Best (Grand Criterium 1984); Polonia (Prix de l'Abbaye 1987); Nazoo (Tattersalls Tiffany Yorkshire Fillies' Stakes); Treasure Hope (Premio Regina Elena - Italian 1,000 Guineas - 1992); Ivyanna (Oaks D'Italia 1992). Royal Ascot victories came on Relfo in the Ribblesdale Stake (1978) and two Queen Alexandra Stakes on Easy To Please (1991) and Riszard (1993).
His career was closely linked to four of Irish racing's biggest names - P J Prendergast (1966-80); David O'Brien (1982-88), Jim Bolger (1989-93) and Aidan O'Brien (1994-98). He also rode as second jockey to the legendary Vincent O'Brien. Roche went on to enjoy considerable success as a jumps trainer, including three Cheltenham Festival winners, with Like-A-Butterfly (2002 Supreme Novices' Hurdle), Grimes (2001 Galway Plate), Khayrawani (1999 Coral Cup), Joe Mac, Bannow Bay and Youlneverwalkalone (2003 William Hill Handicap Chase). Retired in 2018, handing the licence over to son Padraig, a successful amateur rider.
JOHNNY ROE
Born: Co Wicklow 1938
A PROLIFIC rider of winners for a multitude of trainers, including Seamus McGrath (for whom he was also apprenticed to), Vincent O'Brien, Dermot Weld, John Oxx Senior and Bernard van Cutsem, Johnny Roe was champion jockey nine times (1963, 1964, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, and 1974).
Won two Irish Classics, Irish 1,000 Guineas (Royal Danseuse 1964) and Irish Oaks (Pampalina 1967), and was also successful in the English 1,000 Guineas on Nocturnal Spree in 1975. With 87 winners in 1972, broke the record number of winners in a season by one held by Martin Quirke.
Finished 12th of 14 to Steel Pulse on Epsom Derby winner Roberto (ridden on that occasion by Lester Piggott) in the 1972 Irish Derby but was unbeaten on the Vincent O'Brien-trained colt in a three-race juvenile career in Ireland, including the National Stakes. He won the same race for the Ballydoyle trainer on Chamozzle the following year. Other big-race wins included three in the Pretty Polly Stakes on Place D'Etoile (1970), Hurry Harriet (1973) and Miss Toshiba (1975).
Royal Ascot successes came on Current Coin (1966 Cork & Orrery Stakes); Continuation (1966 Royal Hunt Cup); Panic (1966 Queen Alexander Stakes); Red Alert (1974 Jersey Stakes); Highest Trump (1974 Queen Mary Stakes). Won the Stewards' Cup on the Dermot Weld-trained Red Alert (1974). Has ridden in the US, France, Germany, India, Zambia, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), Hong Kong and Spain and went on to train in Shankill, Co Dublin and for five years in Macau. He died aged 79 in 2017.
PAT SMULLEN
Born: 1977-2020
THE Irish racing community was rocked to its core in September 2020 by the sad news that Patrick Joseph Smullen had died from pancreatic cancer, aged 43. A nine-time Irish champion flat jockey and a 12-time European Classic winner, he succeeded Michael Kinane as Dermot Weld's stable jockey in 1998 and he was quick to make his mark for a trainer who has a record second to none for grooming talented jockeys.
Harzand's brilliant Epsom-Curragh Derby double in 2016 was the high point of a remarkable career but he also won an Irish Derby on Grey Swallow (2004), two Irish 1,000 Guineas on Nightime (2006) and Bethrah (2010), a record four consecutive Irish St Legers on Vinnie Roe (2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004; who also landed the French equivalent, the 2001 Prix Royal-Oak), an English 2,000 Guineas on Refuse To Bend (2003) and an Irish Oaks on Covert Love (2015).
Other Group/Grade One wins came on Fascinating Rock (2016 Tattersalls Gold Cup), Covert Love (2015 Prix de l'Opera), Fascinating Rock (2015 Champion Stakes),Free Eagle (2015 Prince of Wales's Stakes), Emulous (2011 Matron Stakes), Chinese White (2010 Pretty Polly Stakes), Right Of Passage (2010 Ascot Gold Cup), Casual Conquest (2009 Tattersalls Gold Cup), Benbaun (2007 Prix de l'Abbaye), Grey Swallow (2005 Tattersalls Gold Cup); Dress To Thrill (2002 Matriarch Stakes, Hollywood Park, USA); Refuse To Bend (2002 National Stakes). The Tommy Stack-trained Tarascon (1997 Moyglare Stakes) gave him his first Group One win. Landed a Breeders' Cup success on the Ralph Beckett-trained Muhannak in the Breeders' Cup Marathon at Santa Anita in 2008.
Spent four years apprenticed to Tommy Lacy, riding his first winner at the age of 16 on Lacy's Vicosa at Dundalk in 1994, and was apprentice champion twice (1995 and 1996). Made his Royal Ascot breakthrough on Irresistible Jewel (2002 Ribblesdale Stakes). Seven more were to follow.
Rode 1,845 winners in Ireland and his nine titles came in 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2014, 2015, 2016.
Was married to Frances Crowley - who made history by becoming the first woman to officially train an Irish Classic winner when Saoire landed the 1,000 Guineas in 2005 - a sister of Aidan O'Brien's wife, Annemarie. Daughter Hannah landed her first win on board Fillusion at Tramore in 2024 in the colours of her mother. The Pat Smullen Race is run in honour of the legendary jockey at Listowel in June.
Because of various fundraising endeavours undertaken by Pat, his family and the horse racing community, the Pat Smullen Pancreatic Cancer Fund was created to build on new research and treatment options for pancreatic cancer sufferers. A truly fitting legacy for a remarkable jockey.
WALLY SWINBURN
Born: Liverpool, 1937
SERVING his apprenticeship in England with Sam Armstrong, Wally Swinburn rode his first winner at Warwick on Metalon, May 4th, 1953 and was one of a select group of jockeys who have ridden full-time in Ireland, England and France. Had a two-season spell with P J Prendergast (1958-1959) but struck up a successful partnership with Dermot Weld which saw him becoming the first jockey to win 100 races in an Irish Flat season (his final tally of 101 beat Johnny Roe's record of 87) in 1977. That was his second jockeys' title following his first the previous year.
Rode three Irish Classic winners; two 1,000 Guineas (Pidget 1972 and Princes Polly 1982) and an Irish Oaks (Blue Wind 1981). Was also associated with another useful filly in Sookera, who won the Cheveley Park Stakes in 1977. His six winners at Royal Ascot were Martial (1958 Coventry Stakes), Sookera (1977 Chesham Stakes), Nanticious (1977 Ribblesdale Stakes), Sweet Mint (1978 Cork & Orrery Stakes), Sutton Place (1978 Coronation Stakes) and Day Is Done (1981 Norfolk Stakes).
Well-known and popular figure in India during the winter months where he rode a record number of Classic winners. Retired in 1982 and spent a year as assistant to Dermot Weld. Now owns the 200-acre Genesis Green Stud in Newmarket. Son Walter, who was widely recognised as one of the all time great jockeys - winning three Epsom Derbys along with countless Group Ones - gave up race-riding in 2000 before taking up training, but sadly died following a tragic accident in 2016 aged 55.
JOHN THOMPSON
Born: Co Wexford 1880-1913
CHAMPION jockey nine times between 1901 and 1912, John Patrick Thompson died May 29th, 1913 after suffering fatal injuries while schooling a horse over hurdles at the age of 32. A prolific rider of winners for Senator Jim Parkinson's Maddenstown Lodge stables, he was one of the first riders in Ireland to adopt the American seat and his habit of riding with short stirrups revolutionised the look of Irish racing. A strong horseman, good away from the gate, and a powerful finisher (had a reputation for being heavy with the whip), his first winner came on Wink at Tralee in 1898. Rode Berrill to victory in the English Cambridgeshire (1900), foiling a huge gamble on the French horse Dodoman.
In a career that spanned 15 years, he rode 500 winners, with his last public mount coming on Sleipner in the Baldoyle Derby (1913). It's probably fair to say he would have dominated Irish racing for some considerable time had he not suffered that fatal fall. The flying filly Americus Girl gave him some important wins at home and in England and he was also associated with Epsom Derby winner Orby in his early races. Rode three Irish Oaks winners (Royal Mantle 1901, Blakestown 1905 and Shining Way 1912), all trained by Parkinson.
LIAM WARD
Born: Co Limerick, 1930-2022
CHAMPION jockey six times (1961, 1959, 1958, 1957, 1956 and 1953), Liam Ward rode his first winner on Andorra at the Phoenix Park, April 5th, 1947. After serving his apprenticeship with Roderic More O'Ferrall and Martin Quirke, he won 10 Irish Classics: two Derbys (Sindon 1958 and Nijinsky 1970); one 2,000 Guineas (DCM 1952); three Oaks (Amante 1958, Aurabella 1965 and Gaia 1969); one 1,000 Guineas (Zenobia 1960) and three St Legers (Do Well 1951, White Gloves 1966, Reindeer 1969). Also partnered Sicilian Prince to victory in the 1962 French St Leger (Prix Royal-Oak) for Curragh trainer Stuart Murless.
Finished second on odds-on favourite Sir Ivor - winner earlier of the Epsom Derby with Lester Piggott on board - in the 1968 Irish Derby to Ribero, the 16/1 shot being ridden by Piggott to a two-length victory for English trainer Fulke Johnson Houghton.
Nijinsky and Piggott is the combination best remembered when the horse's achievements are recalled, but in Ireland Nijinsky was very much Ward's horse. He rode the colt in all his races and they were unbeaten in six starts, including three of the country's major juvenile races. His win on Nijinsky in the 1970 Irish Derby went some way to atoning for Sir Ivor's shock defeat in that 1968 Classic. His final winner came aboard Cambrienne at Leopardstown (1971). Was a member of the Irish Turf Club, acting as a steward at Naas, the Curragh and Leopardstown racecourses. He died at the TLC nursing home in Maynooth, Co Kildare, aged 92 in 2022.
MORNY WING
Born: Yorkshire, 1897-1965
AFTER serving his apprenticeship in England with Alfred Sadler, Mornington Albert Wing moved to Ireland in 1917 and rode the winners of more Irish Classics (23) than any other jockey. Landed the Irish Triple Crown (2,000 Guineas, Derby and St Leger) on the Joe McGrath-owned, Michael Collins-trained Windsor Slipper in 1942. A rider of great artistry and finesse, who was famous for his strong finish, he won nine jockeys' titles (1928, 1937, 1938, 1939, 1941, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1945). His list of Irish Classic successes makes impressive reading: six Derbys (Ballyheron 1921, Waygood 1923, Rock Star 1930, Rosewell 1938, Windsor Slipper 1942 and Bright News 1946); seven 1,000 Guineas (Lady Violette 1922, Glenshesk 1923, Spiral 1931, Sol Speranza 1937, Gainsworth 1940, Panastrid 1945 and Sea Symphony 1947); seven St Legers (Kirk Alloway 1920, O'Dempsey 1923, Sol de Terre 1930, Ochiltree 1938, Windsor Slipper 1942, Spam 1945 and Esprit de France 1947); two 2,000 Guineas (Lindley 1932 and Windsor Slipper 1942) and one Oaks (Sol Speranza 1937). He retired from race-riding in 1949 to train at Rosewell House and later at Loughbrown Lodge stables. As a trainer he won the Irish St Leger with Do Well (ridden by Liam Ward) in 1951, the same year he finished runner-up to Paddy Prendergast as leading trainer in terms of money won. He died at his Windsor Lodge home, Naas, aged 68 in May 1965.