Memories of ‘phenomenal’ Roaring Lion still burn brightly for Murphy
Qatar Racing’s superstar grey was sensational in winning four Group Ones in 2018.
Every jockey dreams of that one horse to take their career to another level – and in 2018 Oisin Murphy had Roaring Lion. Already Qatar Racing’s main man at that point, the Irishman had tasted success at the highest level when steering Aclaim to victory in the Prix de la Foret and also striking aboard Blond Me in Canada the previous year. However, Roaring Lion would confirm the promise of his juvenile season and prove the mainstay of a phenomenal 2018 season, where Murphy would win nine Group Ones across five different countries.Derby dreams were ultimately crushed amidst nagging stamina doubts, but 10 furlongs was Roaring Lion’s forte and he would soon embark on a thrilling four-timer which saw him claim some of the summer’s most prestigious prizes. His winning streak would begin at Sandown, when finally toppling old nemesis Saxon Warrior in the Eclipse, and after dazzling once again on the Knavesmire, this time in the Juddmonte International, it would have been hard to believe even better was still to come. “I can’t remember how many Group One winners I had that year, but it was one of my best seasons,” said Murphy. “Roaring Lion had an incredible run up to the Irish Champion Stakes. He was brilliant in the Juddmonte International at York. Those sort of horses, they make careers for jockeys and trainers and I have very fond memories of him.
What a race – Roaring Lion wins the QIPCO Irish Champion Stakes! @LeopardstownRC pic.twitter.com/GTxpZ7NFc3
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) September 15, 2018
Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Horse Racing
Four horses who could be targeted at Royal Ascot
As the flat season begins to gather...
-
Horse Racing
Kentucky Derby 2025 – all eyes on Journalism and Baffert
America’s biggest horse race looms on the...
-
Horse Racing
Cheltenham Festival 2025 – Bookies spared bumper payout after opening day carnage
Bookmakers were spared an estimated £50 million...
-
Horse Racing
Rider’s ocular accident underscores importance of protective eyewear
Amid non-stop negotiations surrounding the need to...
-
Horse Racing
Concerns over inadequate facilities for female jockeys as racecourses miss upgrade deadlines
The Professional Jockeys Association (PJA)...
-
Ramatuelle ruled out of Breeders’ Cup Mile bid
French ace scratched from Del Mar contest following veterinary advice.
-
Horse Racing
Yahagi has every faith Forever Young is ready for Classic battle
‘Perfect preparation’ for Kentucky Derby third heading into City Of Troy clash.
-
Exciting times as Brighterdaysahead starts off at Down Royal
‘One step at a time’ for Grade One-winning mare, who was expected to go chasing this season.
-
Joseph O’Brien expecting Classic show from ‘right type’ Troy
But Kieren Fallon sounding note of caution ahead of Del Mar blockbuster.
-
Grand Sefton not on the agenda for Minella Drama
Donald McCain happy to wait for other targets with Old Roan winner.