Jockey Jody Townend ends the season as champion amateur female jockey for the fourth year in a row

CORK'S Jody Townend capped off another memorable jumps campaign by claiming the Champion Female Amateur jockey award for the fourth consecutive season. 

The Lisgoold native rode 16 winners from only 60 rides which is a phenomenal strike rate. 

To cap off another amazing season she rode a first ever Grade 1 success aboard Redemption Day at the Punchestown Festival and her easy-going manner and brilliant ability has taken her right to the very top.

“Winning a first ever Grade 1 was certainly extra special. There are only two chances in the season and that is at Cheltenham and Punchestown,"

Townend said.

"I was actually second on Redemption Day a couple of years ago in the same race, so it was great to win this time. 

"I loved this horse all season and my dad travelled up to see the race as he was sick of listening to me going on about how good he was training. "He travelled so strongly into the race that I was actually able to enjoy it which never happens in these big races. 

"He’s a smashing horse and will probably go over hurdles at the beginning of the new winter campaign.” 

Being attached to the all-conquering Willie Mullins stable certainly provides opportunities although Jody has ridden winners for other trainers during the season. 

"A normal week involves riding out every morning at Willie’s from Monday to Thursday and I stay in Kilkenny. 

"Usually, there is racing on as well, so it just depends on where the race meeting is on. But I get back home every weekend which is lovely. 

"I have a couple of show jumpers and my own horse called Jimmy who I got a lifetime ago. 

"Thankfully, my dad looks after the showjumpers during the week, and I usually go to the local shows around East Cork. 

"We have Carrigtwohill and Middleton coming up soon which are always great events.” 

While the Champion Trainer Willie Mullins is breaking records with increasing regularity, working at his yard in Carlow is a dream job for any jockey. 

“I know it might sound hard to believe with all the records, but it is a really laid-back place to work. 

"There is such a great buzz every morning and I just love working there. Obviously, there are so many quality horses in the yard but there is just good ole crack riding out. 

"The ambition for the upcoming season will be the same as the last few years, stay in one piece and ride plenty of winners. 

"The summer racing festivals will be in full swing shortly so that will keep us busy travelling up and down the country with all roads leading to the Galway Races at the end of July. 

"I will also ride in a few of the big Ladies races at the flat meetings.” 

But the victory of Redemption Day will be fondly remembered in the Townend family for many years to come. 

Jody has proved herself to be an exceptional rider over the last few years but a maiden Grade 1 triumph in the Punchestown Champion Bumper was just rewards for her talent and endeavour. 

Despite his multiple Grade 1 successes across this record-breaking campaign, the champion trainer was visibly thrilled and paid this tribute.

"It's fantastic for Jody and it's her first Grade 1 and Redemption Day was brilliant on the day," Willie Mullins said. 

"Jody does her own thing in her races and it works. 

"We often discuss plans but once the tapes go up, Jody just does what Jody wants to do – and invariably it works."