Leading Training and Riding Performances of the Curragh 2024
The Curragh’s season finale on Sunday 3rd November was a celebration of exceptional talent, with numerous awards presented, including the Curragh Awards for Leading Riding and Training Performances of 2024. Voted for by the racing public, we were thrilled to honour both James Ryan and Danny McLoughlin for their outstanding achievements.
JAMES RYAN
Apprentice to Tom McCourt in Stamullen, County Meath, and hailing from Oldtown in County Dublin, James has been awarded the Curragh’s Leading Riding Performance of 2024, as voted by the public. He earned this honour with his victory aboard Courageous Strike, trained by Adrian Murray, in the Fitzpatrick’s Apprentice Derby during Irish Derby Weekend. Just over a week ago, James celebrated the biggest win of his career, partnering with Danny Murphy-trained Ostraka to clinch the Group 3 William Hill Mercury Stakes at Dundalk. At the Curragh Racecourse’s SEASON FINALE on Sunday, he not only received the Curragh’s Leading Riding Performance 2024 but was also crowned Champion Apprentice Jockey for the season by Horse Racing Ireland!
DANNY MC LOUGHLIN
Having just turned 22 earlier this year, Danny, who hails from Newbridge, may well be Ireland’s youngest trainer. Following his first victory at Naas Racecourse in May 2024, Danny McLoughlin achieved a remarkable win at Curragh Racecourse in August. His horse, Bold Optimist, delivered a perfectly timed surge to edge out Little Queenie and claim victory in the Holden Plant Rentals Handicap. This impressive moment, recognised by the racing public, earns Danny the Curragh’s Leading Training Performance of 2024! A very fitting accolade given Danny trains his horses on the Curragh training grounds.
We wish James and Danny all the very best for the future.