莫狄成巴利多爾新帥
Johnny Murtagh has landed the dream role of number one rider to the powerful Coolmore operation.
The 37-year-old has ridden a number of big-race winners for Aidan O'Brien over the years, including the Epsom Derby on High Chaparral in 2002.
He was a regular on the trainer's horses in Britain throughout 2007 with the then-Coolmore number one Kieren Fallon suspended from riding by the British authorities pending the outcome of his court case at the Old Bailey, where he was subsequently acquitted of all charges.
Murtagh's appointment appears to bring to an end Fallon's association with the powerhouse stable.
The Coolmore team stood by Fallon throughout his trial, but he was hit with an 18-month worldwide suspension by France Galop last week after testing positive for a prohibited substance, although he has launched an appeal.
Speaking from Dubai, Murtagh said: "I am over the moon. It is a great opportunity and I am really looking forward to riding for the team.
"I am 37 now and my best years lie ahead of me."
A statement from Coolmore said: "Owners John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith are delighted to announce that Johnny Murtagh will be the retained jockey for their horses at Ballydoyle and elsewhere for the 2008 season."
O'Brien said: "Johnny has already enjoyed plenty of success as part of the team at Ballydoyle and we are delighted to have him on board."
His agent Eddie Byrne said: "Johnny is absolutely delighted with the appointment, and to be riding for John Magnier, Michael Tabor and Derrick Smith.
"He'd like to thank Mick Halford and Ger Lyons, who have given him many winners in the last couple of seasons, and hopes to ride for them again when available.
"He's contracted to ride in Dubai until after the World Cup and then he will be coming back immediately. He is looking forward to his new appointment."
Lyons was delighted for Murtagh.
He said: "He rang me with the news today and I'm absolutely delighted. It took them long enough and I'm surprised he didn't get it years ago.
"He's one of the best jockeys in the world, if not the best. I'm delighted for him, it's the right time for him and I'm just thrilled for him.
"Johnny's at his best when he's riding the big horses. When he's riding Group One winners he's the best in the business.
"He rode me my first ever winner and he's been brilliant for me throughout.
"I will continue to use him when he's available and he's still my first choice jockey when he's available."
Halford also heard the news from Murtagh himself.
"I spoke to Johnny at length this afternoon. He's in great form, it's a fabulous opportunity for him," said the Curragh trainer.
"We are disappointed to be losing Johnny but he's been a wonderful help to us over the years.
"He's a great friend and I'm delighted for him from that point of view.
"We wish him all the best and he's thoroughly deserving of the position."
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