Russell lands plum job as first jockey to Ferdy Murphy
Russell (23) was regarded as the most exciting and talented amateur in Ireland and it is no surprise Murphy has moved to appoint him to replace the now retired Adrian Maguire.
Tom O’Mahony, very well known in racing circles and the man who started Maguire with Toby Balding in England, played a major part in bringing Murphy and Russell together.
Speaking yesterday, Russell said: “This is all down to Tom, one hundred per cent.
“I met with Ferdy in Cork on Monday night and, as a result, I am to become his number one jockey, starting on Thursday.’’
Russell was point-to-point champion last year and shared the title this year with John Thomas McNamara.
The pair finished the campaign with 58 winners, the highest number ever recorded in a season in this country. In all Russell has enjoyed 137 successes in points.
Russell had long planned to join the paid ranks, but not until he judged the time to be right.
He said: “It was always my intention to turn professional, but only if I got a good offer with a large yard like this behind me.
“You wouldn’t believe how excited I am. This is the dream turning to reality.
“When I spoke to Ferdy he pointed out that I was unlikely to ever ride in races like the Gold Cup, Champion Hurdle or Grand National as an amateur.
“My ambition is to ride in those races and as a professional at the Cheltenham Festival.’’
It will, of course, be a dramatic change from sparring against fellow corinthians to crossing swords with the likes of the extraordinary Tony McCoy. It is a challenge which Russell is relishing. “Yes, I know it will be completely different and to get into that sort of competition is unbelievable’’, he said. “But it will still be race-riding, what I have been doing all the time.’’
Murphy has 98 horses and the pilot will have the option of partnering them all.
Commented Russell: “Ferdy told me he has spoken to the owners and they are happy for me to ride everything in the yard, including Truckers Tavern and Paris Pike.’’
Truckers Tavern was a smashing novice and could well be a Gold Cup candidate, while Paris Pike has the Aintree Grand National on his agenda.
The go-ahead Murphy is very optimisic about the future. He said: “This season’s team is the best we have ever had. We ended last season with 68 winners and are always trying to improve.
“The plan is not to take the foot off the pedal.’’
