Racing: Irish rider for Falkirk in Europe

Irishman Johnny Murtagh is the confirmed jockey for New Zealand-owned galloper Falkirk for his international racing campaign in Europe.

Trainer Anthony Freedman confirmed the riding engagement a week ahead of the Tale Of The Cat stallion's departure for England. "He was the jockey we wanted, so it's great to have him riding Falkirk."

Falkirk will tackle one or both of the Royal Ascot Global Sprint Challenge races.

The first of these is the group two King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot on June 20 and the second is the group one Golden Jubilee Stakes (1200m) at Royal Ascot on June 24.

- NZPA