Doneraile’s Darragh O’Keeffe came within touching distance of Irish racing’s top prize after a fierce season-long title fight, finishing on 99 wins for the season after pushing champion Jack Kennedy all the way before ultimately having to settle for second in a dramatic Irish Jump Jockeys’ Championship battle that went right down to the wire at Punchestown Festival.
O’Keeffe refused to go quietly. A late-season surge, including a crucial Thursday treble, dragged him right back into contention and turned the closing weeks into a straight fight at the top. Every ride mattered. Every finish carried weight. But Kennedy held firm when it counted most and edged clear to take the title.
It leaves O’Keeffe with 99 winners on the board and a season that confirmed his place among Ireland’s leading riders. For the Doneraile jockey, it was a campaign built on consistency, big-race composure, and a relentless push right to the final days.
While the championship battle played out on the national stage, there was plenty of quality action closer to home as Cork Racecourse delivered a strong day of racing with competitive finishes and standout performances throughout the card.
The feature €50,000 Horse & Jockey Hotel Cork Derby saw Londonofficecallin land a major upset at 40/1 for Gavin Cromwell and Robert Whearty, producing a strong late surge to claim a thrilling victory.
Royal Bay Cen struck in the Listed Polonia Stakes for Ben Coen and Johnny Murtagh, while Samurai Mike delivered in the Unquestionable Standing at Rathbarry Stud Maiden for Seamie Heffernan and Fozzy Stack.
Edward Thatch rounded off the card with a solid win in the Irish EBF Auction Series Maiden for Donagh O’Connor.
