On the same day that Lyle Hewitson, Luke Ferraris and Karis Teetan made hay at Sha Tin, SA Jockey Academy graduate Callan Murray enjoyed one of his personal best days in the saddle since moving to Adelaide, riding a metropolitan treble at Morphettville on Boxing Day.
Punters.com.au reports that affectionately known as “Squid”, the nine-time Group 1-winning rider in South Africa – who moved to Adelaide, Australia, midway through 2021 – saluted for three consecutive victories on Tuesday’s nine-race card – including two for the Nicole Irwin stable.
Flashback photo to Cape Town in winter – Callan Murray (Pic – Chase Liebenberg)
Murray’s first winner of the day, the Irwin-trained Vexatious Dancer (A$11), looked set to be a hardluck story for most of the straight, the three-year-old filly desperately searching for a run and receiving contact before Murray found clear running to nab Sharendipity (A$4.80) just prior to the post in race six
The following race was a more straightforward affair, Murray settling on pace aboard Pompeii Empire (A$2.80 fav) for Richard and Chantelle Jolly, before eventually grinding down race leader Willaston late.
Another on-pace steer saw Murray guide a gritty Call Me Vexatious (A$2.80 fav) to victory with his final ride of the day, the five-year-old gelding staving off challengers late to hold on and deliver Murray riding honours.
“I’m just happy that I’m able to capitalise on the opportunities I’m getting, huge thanks to Nicki, she’s really loyal to me,” Murray said.
“It’s been a huge day, thanks to everyone for supporting me, I really appreciate, my family just landed from South Africa so I’m going to see them now – I’m really excited.”
Murray was just one of a few individuals to fair well on Boxing Day at Morphettville, with in-form hoops Justin Potter and Ben Price also securing winning doubles, while the training partnership of Will Clarken and Niki O’Shea also secured two wins alongside Bruggemann.
