Oisin Murphy to Make Jumping Debut at Wincanton on Boxing Day

Fresh off a remarkable year of Flat racing triumphs, Oisin Murphy is set to take on a new challenge as he makes his jumping debut at Wincanton on Boxing Day.

The 29-year-old jockey, who secured his fourth British Champion Jockey title this year, capped off a stellar Flat season with Group One victories aboard Asfoora and Khaadem at Royal Ascot. His international exploits also included a Grade One win in Canada with New Century, success in the Hong Kong Vase with Giavellotto, and, most recently, a triumph in the Indian 2000 Guineas.

Murphy will now transition from Flat to hurdles, taking the reins on Neil Mulholland’s Ike Sport in a Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle qualifier. Demonstrating his commitment, Murphy made time to school over hurdles at Mulholland’s yard despite a whirlwind schedule.

“Although I rode in India yesterday, I made it to Neil Mulholland’s this morning to school over hurdles,” said Murphy on Monday. “He’s got a wonderful facility, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity on Thursday at Wincanton.”

The Wincanton race marks a special occasion for Murphy, whose sister Blaithin Murphy is the track’s general manager.

"I want to ride well, and if I can get a result, that would be great," he said.

Murphy, nephew of Cheltenham Gold Cup and Grand National-winning jockey Jim Culloty, had initially hoped to debut over jumps at Wincanton last December, but the meeting was abandoned. This time, he’s ready to embrace the challenge and add a new dimension to his already impressive career.