ONE of the stories of recent months has been the emergence of a number of talented young riders, and in particular, the impact that they are beginning to have in younger age maidens.

The likes of Sean O’Keeffe, Shane Fitzgerald and Luke Murphy may range in age from just 19 to 21, but they have certainly been showing maturity in the saddle well above their years this season, catching the eyes of many. All three were in the winner’s enclosure last weekend having partnered four-year-old maiden winners at either Loughanmore or Bartlemy.