A stroke of Genius from Murphys! Eighteen year old George Murphy partnered his first career winner at Leopardstown today, steering her father John Murphy's Sheer Genius to win the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle. Murphy rode a patient race on the son of Norwich, holding him up in rear in the early stages. Murphy then moved the gelding to challenge before the final flight, eventually staying on well for a comfortable win over Lord Gale. Afterwards Murphy Snr said “I'm delighted! He'll probably go for a novice hurdle but we'll see what the handicapper does first. The ground suits him, he is by Norwich (the same stallion as Murphy's Champion Chase winner Newmill) and they seem to come into their own at this time of the year!” Regarding his son George, the proud father said “George is only 18 but is quite tall. He has done his Leaving Cert and was in Dubai for a few months and in Ballydoyle for summer holidays before then. He has ridden in points too but this is his first winner.”
