Kavanagh pays tribute to Keane Horse Racing Ireland's chief executive Brian Kavanagh has paid tribute to Colin Keane after the young rider was crowned champion Flat jockey for the first time on Sunday. Having been champion apprentice in 2014, the 23-year-old was runner-up to Pat Smullen in the title race the following year and again 12 months ago, but finished this term with 100 winners - 12 clear of the nine-time champion after a season-long battle. Kavanagh said: "I would like to congratulate all of our champions for their performances on the track this season. "Domestically the 2017 season will forever be remembered for the tremendous battle served up by Colin Keane and Pat Smullen in the Irish champion jockeys' title. Both jockeys, their trainers, agents and families should be commended for the entertainment they have provided over many months. "There had to be a winner and Colin Keane is a worthy champion. His skill has been evident in recent seasons and he proved this season that he is right up there with the best riders on the international scene." Reflecting on the season as whole, Kavanagh added: "I'm very proud of the achievements of Irish-bred horses, our riders and our trainers at home and abroad, and special mention, at the official close of this Flat season, must go to Aidan O'Brien and his team, for the outstanding achievement in setting a new world record for Group and Grade One wins in a calendar year."
