Reaching the landmark was the second part of a double target Callan set himself in 2005. The other half was winning a Group One, which he did twice on Amadeus Wolf in the Middle Park Stakes and Palace Episode in the Racing Post Trophy.

“Hopefully I can go into next year and maybe give the championship a shot,” said Callan, three-times winter all-weather champion.

Only Jamie Spencer has had more winners than him this year, but Callan was only seventh in the race to be number one during the Flat season.

“I was getting a bit worried when I kept hitting the seconds all last week, but it’s good to get it,” Callan went on. “It was only a claimer today, but it was the winner I wanted. I’m very happy.

“My aim at the start of the year was 150 winners and a Group One.

“It’s been an unbelievable year. The support I’ve had mainly from Kevin (Ryan) and his owners has been tremendous. But I’m not taking anything way from all the stables around the country who have supported me as well.

“I feel I have improved so much with my confidence. Everything seems to be coming together, but I’m a long way off being as good as I want to be.

“I can’t believe it, it’s been a wonderful year. I’ll go into next year just riding as I am now, full of confidence.

“Hopefully I’ll get the breaks and get off to a good start and keep the momentum going.

“I’ve got a ride tomorrow then I’m going to take a rest up to the weekend when Kevin has various runners then I’ll kick on in the New Year.

“I’ll celebrate quietly over a bottle of champagne with my wife and my parents who are over from Ireland. It’s great that they are here too.”