Murphy in control after hitting second century

Oisin Murphy’s quest to become champion jockey looks well on track after Kyllang Rock’s brave victory at Nottingham yesterday gave the rider his 100th winner of the season.

Both Murphy and Danny Tudhope, who have been going headto-head for a while, are seeking to become champion for the first time in what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting title races in years.

Murphy is 10 winners ahead of Tudhope, who drew a blank at Carlisle last night.

This is the second time Murphy has passed the century. Last year he reached the landmark after 601 rides; this year, with an incredible winning strike rate of 18 per cent, he has taken just 544 rides.

Murphy said yesterday: “It is a great feeling to reach 100 winners. I have been working as hard as I can and cannot thank everyone who is supporting me enough. Although I ride the horses, I wouldn’t be able to do it without the network of people around me and to those guys I’m so grateful.

“There is still over two months left of the season. I’ll be doing everything I can to keep my momentum going. It would be a dream come true to be crowned champion jockey at Ascot on Qipco British Champions Day.”

Stand-out performances by the 23-year-old this season include Group One successes with Deirdre in the Qatar Nassau Stakes at Goodwood and Veracious in the Tattersalls Falmouth Stakes at Newmarket.

Champion Hurdler

Trailblazer: Oisin Murphy is 10 winners clear of rival Danny Tudhope Espoir D’allen is unlikely to defend his crown in March after suffering a fall when returning to the yard from the gallops last week. He is in Fethard Equine Hospital.

Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP Mcmanus, said: “Unfortunately he reared over when he got spooked. He is at Fethard and they are thoroughly checking him over. As yet we are not exactly sure, but it looks like he’ll be out for the season.”