Murtagh returns to his roots with Banyan Tree

Jockey Johnny Murtagh, who was due to ride at York today but was retained by Aidan O'Brien at Killarney, partnered the winner of the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden at the Co Kerry track, on 1/3f Banyan Tree

Murtagh was due to partner Benbaun, runner-up in the Group 1 Nunthorpe Stakes at York but did make the trip to Killarney a successful one. His win on easy all-the-way winner Banyan Tree moved him onto the the 63 winner mark for the season, eight winners clear of Pat Smullen at the head of the Jockeys' Championship.

Banyan Tree, out of Oaks winner User Friendly, had previously finished second on his two career starts.