CURRAGH trainer Michael O’Callaghan surprised the racing world today by unveiling Kieren Fallon as the newest member of his team at Crotanstown Stud yard.

Regarded as one of the rising stars of Irish racing, Michael O’Callaghan is the trainer of Blue De Vega, a leading classic hope for this year.

Announcing the news, Michael O’Callaghan said: “Kieren Fallon is one of the world’s most accomplished jockeys. He has been British champion six times and has won big races all over the world. I am thrilled that he has agreed to join our team.”

Pending some administrative details, Kieren Fallon will ride three horses for the O’Callaghan stable at the Curragh this Sunday [March 20th]. The trainer commented: “Kieren is delighted to be back in Ireland after a year and a half in the USA. I’m sure the Irish racing public will also be excited to see such a star in action. We have a bit of paperwork to clear before Sunday but, all being well, Kieren will ride for us at the Curragh. Some of our owners, including Qatar Racing, retain their own jockeys but hopefully Kieren will be available to ride many of the others.”

Kieren added: “Irish racing is up there with the best in the world and, even while I was in America, I have been following the scene here. Michael is a trainer going places and I jumped at the opportunity to get involved with his yard. He has a super set-up here on the Curragh, a smashing group of horses and excellent staff. This is a good move for me.”

A native of Tralee, Co Kerry, now living on the Curragh in Kildare, Michael O’ Callaghan is one of Ireland’s most ambitious trainers. An award-winning graduate of the Irish National Stud Thoroughbred Breeding Course, Michael sourced and produced horses at the highest level before taking over the historic Crotanstown Stud yard on the Curragh. His 65-box yard (he recently added a second yard) is almost full and the current stable star, Blue De Vega, is among the favourites for the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket on April 30th.

MORE ON THIS STORY IN THE IRISH FIELD ON SATURDAY (ONLINE FRIDAY 8pm)

Click here to download THE IRISH FIELD NEWS APP from iTunes for Apple devices

Click here to download THE IRISH FIELD NEWS APP for Android devices

DOWNLOAD THE IRISH FIELD NEWS APP TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE RACING NEWS