Seven Cork magical racing moments from 2025
The Betfred Derby (Group 1)
It was a particularly huge day for Cork sport. The Munster Hurling Final between Cork and Limerick took place at the Gaelic Grounds.
Wayne landed the 246th Epsom Derby aboard Lambourn under positive front running tactics.
Wayne provided Aidan O'Brien with a record extending eleventh victory in the blue ribband Classic.
A few hours later Cork claimed a 55th Munster Hurling title after the first penalty shootout in the history of the Munster Championship - spoiling Limerick’s seven-in-a row aspirations.
The Wednesday of the Cheltenham Festival was a special day at Prestbury Park.
Jazzy Matty and Marine Nationale, the horses Michael O’Sullivan had ridden to victory in 2023 both won again in an ironic twist of fate.
Jody rounded off a memorable day with an ice cool ride on the brilliant mare to win in some style.
The partnership replicated that success a few weeks later in the Champion Bumper at the Punchestown Festival.
Alan's victory in the featured Connacht Hotel Qualified Riders Handicap left an indelible mark on this iconic race and on those of us fortunate to witness that extra special night in Ballybrit.
Alan enjoyed the biggest victory of his career on the biggest stage of the summer festival circuit.
This victory at the Cheltenham Festival was undoubtedly the most emotional experience I witnessed on any racecourse in 2025.
Ridden by Paul Townend and trained by Willie Mullins, Kopek Des Bordes is owned by Monabeg Investments Limited spearheaded by Fermoy’s Charlie McCarthy.
Charlie had his right kidney removed two weeks prior to the race. Kopek Des Bordes clearly kept him going through that ordeal.
Charlie and his sons were present at Cheltenham for a spectacular victory in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle Charlie's dream was realised and the dream is not quite finished yet with Arkle Chase aspirations for next March on the radar.
Alan and Eugene O’Sullivan presented the Trophy in the race named after Michael O’Sullivan - amidst emotional scenes on a soul stirring afternoon in the Cotswolds.
Oscar's Brother dug deep to beat subsequent winner Koktail Divin.
Connor only has two horses in his yard. Oscars Brother was recently purchased by JP McManus and will stay in training with Connor.
Oscars Brother produced a sublime round of jumping to win at Galway in October.
Ridden and trained by Declan Queally he bolted up in the Tote sponsored Handicap Hurdle.
He’d been off for two years after breaking down badly and only got in as first reserve.
There were Cheltenhamesque celebrations in Galway as the Watergrasshill crew made their presence felt with the well backed 7/1 winner.
This was an extra special day for three proud Cork men.
Glanworth jockey John Shinnick was onboard in the €100,000 feature at Navan’s Racing Festival.
Carrigtwohill trainer Terence O'Brien was decidedly emotional in the winners enclosure.
He trains the horse for Denis O'Connor - they have been friends for an eternity.
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