JACK Kennedy looks a near certainty to be crowned champion jump jockey for the first time at Punchestown on Saturday,

Despite only riding one winner at Punchestown this week, and suspended from riding today, Kennedy holds a lead of four winners over Paul Townend, the reigning champion.

Townend has five rides at Punchestown today, including three clear favourites, but bookmakers reckon Kennedy is long-odds on to claim the title.

From Dingle, Co Kerry, Kennedy turned 25 last month and is eight years younger than six-times champion Townend. He has been based with trainer Gordon Elliott for all of his career to-date. A former pony racing champion, he rode his first Cheltenham winner aged 17 and won the 2021 Cheltenham Gold Cup on Minella Indo.

However, Kennedy has also had more than his fair share of injuries. He missed the 2020 and 2023 Festivals through injury and has broken his leg five times.

Patrick Mullins is champion amateur rider for the 16th time and Danny Gilligan is the leading claiming professional. Jody Townend wins a fourth female amateur rider title and the champion owner is J.P. McManus for the 21st time.