LUKE Dempsey has won the Martinstown Stud Opportunity Series for the 2015-16 season.

With a total of 68 points, Dempsey held off the challenge of both Donagh Meyler (62 points) and Jodie McGarvey (54 points) to land the series which has been sponsored by Martinstown Stud owner J.P. McManus since 2003. Val O’Brien was the leading trainer with a record total of 81 points, some 37 points clear of runner-up Gordon Elliott.

Dempsey will now join champion claiming professional rider Jack Kennedy on the Irish team for the annual trip to Australia in August.This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Ireland versus Australia challenge and event organiser Sean Lynch expressed his delight at having both Dempsey and Kennedy on the team.

“They are two exceptional riders and I am sure they will do Ireland proud in August,” said Lynch.

“This is a four-man team and the other two riders will be chosen nearer the time. Ex-pats Johnny Allen, Paul Gallagher, Donal McAuley, Nicky O’Shea, Paddy Flood and Tom Ryan are all in the mix.”