When The British Champion Came To Town

We welcomed Oisin Murphy to Hollywoodbets Kenilworth!

The reigning British champion jockey Oisin Murphy added a sprinkling of stardust to the Cape Summer Festival of Racing when he rode seven horses at the L’Ormarins King’s Plate meeting at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on 4 January.

The 29-year-old, who has been crowned British champion four times since 2019 was making his second visit to South Africa, having ridden at the Summer Cup meeting at Turffontein last November. However, on arrival at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth, where he inspected the track the day before the meeting, he said: “It’s beautiful down here. I’ve never ridden at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth before, this will be the first time, and it’s a very lovely track with quite a long straight.”

In his seven rides he finished second on Clair De Lune, unplaced on Tough Terrain, fourth on Summer Lily and Future Swing, unplaced on Summer Sanctuary and fourth in the L’Ormarins King’s Plate on Royal Aussie, before finding the No1 box in the final race, on Sail The Seas.

“It all worked out very well for me and I am delighted to be able to ride for the Snaiths,” said Murphy. “This group of owners have been tremendously hospitable and keen. I think the people behind this fixture, L’Ormarins and Hollywoodbets, should be immensely proud.”

We hope to welcome Oisin back to Cape Town soon!

By Gary Lemke