Internationally renowned jockey Johnny Murtagh has been granted a training licence by the Irish Turf Club.
Murtagh owns the Curragh stables where Tommy Carmody is based and has been working alongside the trainer while undergoing his preparation to take out a licence.
The team started out last year and sent out a number of big-race winners, including Irish St Leger winner Royal Diamond and English Leger fourth Ursa Major for owner Andrew Tinkler.
The Classic-winning rider now plans to take over the running of the operation, combining his training interests with his career in the saddle.
“I finished the course and the Turf Club has granted me a licence to train,” Murtagh told the Irish Times.
“I’m delighted to get it sorted and I think it is an added bonus that I will be able to train and ride the horses.
“I accept that me training might make it difficult for some people to use my services on their horses but I am still available to whoever wants me, and that includes internationally.”
Murtagh will assume control of Fort Knox, who was recently purchased by Sheikh Mohammed and is a leading contender for next weekend’s Tattersalls Irish 2000 Guineas.
“I think starting out under my own name, with a Sheikh Mohammed owned horse, in a Classic, will be a good way to begin. Hopefully he will run well,” Murtagh added.
