It has been mentioned before in this space but an absolutely absorbing aspect of this year’s domestic flat season is the battle for the jockey’s championship.

The current odds on favourite Colin Keane went into the start of Galway with a lead of eight (49 winners in all) over closest rival Kevin Manning with the reigning title holder Pat Smullen just one further back in third place.

Billy Lee, who was touted as a prospective champion here a few weeks ago, continues to enjoy a superb season as does Chris Hayes. However, it is Donnacha O’Brien who has emerged as a major contender for top honours. He rode six winners last week to move into fifth in the jockey’s title (with 34 winners) and he might just be the one to beat as this story unfolds over the coming weeks.