The curtain came down on another great season at the Curragh on Sunday 2nd November with a celebration of the people who made the 2025 season so special. Among the highlights were the Leading Training and Riding Performance Awards, voted for by the racing public. This year’s honours went to trainer Michael Grassick and apprentice jockey Jack Cleary, who each made a big impact at the Curragh this season.
Michael Grassick – Leading Trainer Performance 2025
Winner of the Leading Training Performance, the Curragh based trainer picked up the accolade as voted by members of the public for his exceptional handling of Gazelle D’Or carrying the colours of Joe Keeling, who enjoyed a wonderful season winning on three occasions at the Curragh.
Jack Cleary – Leading Rider Performance 2025
From Caragh close to Naas in County Kildare and son of trainer Michael Cleary, Jack has grown up around racing yards. Riding regularly for Aidan O’Brien’s Ballydoyle stable, Jack seized his opportunity in style, producing a brilliant ride aboard Dorset to win the Goffs Million in September and claim the outstanding ride of the season. A 17/2 runner, Dorset took the lead with just over three furlongs to go and held on to win by just over a length ensuring he topped the public vote.