Currumbin secured a pair of memorable achievements at Southwell, providing jockey Kieran Shoemark with his 100th winner of the year and giving trainer Michael Keady a dream start to his solo training career.
Previously operating under a joint licence with Mike Murphy, Keady has now established his own yard at Revida Place on Newmarket’s Hamilton Road. A graduate of the British Racing School with initial aspirations of being a jockey, Keady has found his calling as a trainer.
Sent off as the 9-4 favourite, Currumbin overcame a slow start in the Build Your Acca With BetUK Handicap, delivering a dominant performance to secure the victory.
“I’m absolutely delighted,” Keady told Sky Sports Racing. “The horse is owned by a syndicate I run with my best friend Dan, and it’s his birthday today. My first runner and Kieran’s 100th – I’m delighted for everyone. It’s a great start.”
Keady expressed gratitude to his supporters, particularly Jim Gill, who played a crucial role in helping him establish his new operation.
“I’m excited about the future and very grateful to all my owners. Hopefully, I can reward them with more winners. We’ve got another runner at Lingfield on Sunday, so fingers crossed we can maintain the 100% strike rate,” Keady added.
For Shoemark, who now rides for the John and Thady Gosden stable, the milestone marked a personal triumph.
“I’m thrilled to hit the century—it’s been a target for a while,” he said. “I’m especially delighted for Michael. I rode plenty for him when he was in partnership with Mike Murphy, so to be part of his first winner is special.”
Reflecting on his season, Shoemark highlighted Friendly Soul’s victory in the Prix de l’Opera as the standout moment of his year, adding,
“I’ve been lucky to ride some great horses.”
The success at Southwell signals bright futures for both Keady and Shoemark, each celebrating significant achievements on a memorable day.