Johnny Murtagh added to Aga Khan training roster following outstanding season

Johnny Murtagh will join Dermot Weld and Michael Halford on the Irish training roster for the Aga Khan and will be sent his first batch of yearlings from the leading owner this year.

A former five-time champion jockey who enjoyed huge success for the Aga's on horses such as Sinndar, Timarida and Kalanisi, Murtagh took out his training licence in 2013.

He has been rewarded with his first batch of youngsters following his best season, which culminated in a breakthrough Group 1 success with Champers Elysees in the Matron Stakes at Leopardstown on Irish Champions Weekend.

Pat Downes, manager of the Aga Khan Studs in Ireland, said: “We have watched Johnny’s training career develop over the last few years and undoubtedly 2020 has been a highly successful year for him.

Sinndar and Johnny Murtagh: one of the many stars he partnered to big-race victoriesCredit: Caroline Norris

"We are delighted to have the opportunity to have him train for the Aga Khan Studs and we will be sending him some yearlings in the coming weeks. His Highness and Johnny have enjoyed some great days in the past together and hopefully there will be good days to look forward to in the future as well."

Murtagh, who rode 16 Group 1 winners in the Aga's green and red silks, said: "I'm delighted to renew our partnership with HH the Aga Khan and his team. It's a hugely successful owner/breeder operation worldwide, and I look forward to receiving his draft of yearlings here at Fox Covert Stables and hopefully many winners to come, to add to our great association together."

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