Tommy Murphy.
Wexford born jockey that was a traditional dual purpose jockey, equally adept on the flat or over obstacles.
Galway Hurdle winners, Cheltenham Festival and Classic winners all came alike to this horseman who took no prisoners on the track. When Johnny Murtagh toyed with riding over hurdles Ted Walsh quipped that he "would end up puttin' fellas over the rails like Tommy Murphy !", surely a compliment for a jockey who rode a Galway Hurdle winner for his father.
He rode Hardboy to four consecutive wins for Richard McCormick in 1972, maiden hurdle, handicap where runner up Tartan Ace carried a £5000 bet for trainer Tom Costello, Galway Hurdle with 9-7 and Carroll's Hurdle , Dundalk August 15th under top weight of 12 stone . Invited to Colonial Cup as Ireland's representative, they performed with credit behind Soothsayer and Inkslinger before Hardboy was retired to stud.
Tommy rode Noble Life to defeat Comedy Of Errors in Supreme Novice Hurdle at 1972 Festival .
After time with Clem Magnier, John's uncle whose Amateur was also his lorry driver, led up Tommy's mounts in earlier races before Tommy led up the Bumper runner , Tommy became Vincent O 'Brien's stable jockey after Lester .
He rode two Irish Classic winners Lady Capulet and Transworld in 1977, both second strings, the former on debut.
Tommy became Irish Champion flat jockey in 1978, staying on after his retirement as work rider/assistant , a role he continued when Aidan took the reins.
One veteran jockeys race at Limerick saw Tommy's Carberry and Murphy as near as dead heat on two Carberry trained runners, gladly I was there to hear Peter O'Sullevan's commentary that evening.
Irish Derby Day six years ago I was privileged to hear Richard and Tommy share some memories , VIncent Rossiter, another Ballydoyle stalwart joined in the conversation.
I remember Aidan, Tommy and vet John Halley sharing ice creams under a tree at Chantilly French Derby Day 1988 ,like bold boys away from their Master's gaze .
Rest in peace Tommy .