Murtagh: Duke meant so much
Johnny Murtagh reflected today on just how much the victory of Duke Of Marmalade in the Prince Of Wales’s Stakes at Royal Ascot meant to him.
In his first season as retained rider at Ballydoyle, Murtagh bagged three Group Ones over the first two days of the big meeting, with Henrythenavigator obliging in the St James’s Palace while Hardasun was also on the mark in the Queen Anne.
But he said: “I have a soft spot for him (Duke Of Marmalade). I know him really well and ride him at home.
“I think you could see how much it meant to me to win. I really thought he would do what he did and I’m glad he showed everyone how good he is.”
Murtagh was also quick to salute trainer Aidan O’Brien.
He said: “We work well together and I have learned a lot from him. He’s a great trainer and a great man as well.
“It’s easy to be positive with such a good team and family and friends.”
