Harnett was crowned leading apprentice in Ireland at the final meeting of the season at the Curragh and celebrated in style aboard the Aidan O'Brien-trained odds-on favourite.

Choctaw Nation was sent off the 4/9 favourite for the Irish European Breeders Fund Maiden following a promising debut second and got the job done with a three and a quarter-length verdict over 20/1 shot Favour Royal.

The winning rider could hardly been more impressed.

He told Racing TV: "This horse gave me a feel that no other horse has ever given me. I think he's a proper horse.

"What stands to him is his attitude as well, I cantered down to the start in front and he just had his ears pricked, he was happy to do anything I asked him. He stood in the stalls for quite a bit because it was such a big field and he popped out lovely and it didn't matter if he was up front on his own or anything, he's just so straightforward.

"It took me back a bit when I gave him a click at the two (furlong marker), he more lengthened than anything. He hit the line really well and he took a lot of pulling up so I'll be keeping my eye on him next year now!"

On his title victory, Harnett said: "It's magic, I'd like to thank everybody who has supported me over the year, and through the years as well as I wouldn't be here without them. To start the last day of the season with a winner in the first race for Aidan O'Brien in the Coolmore silks is crazy and I'd just like to thank him very much.

"Obviously in this game there are loads of bumps and I've learnt that you can't do much about them.

"This season has been amazing, from losing my 5lb claim to finish second on Happy Pharoah to Scandinavia in Leopardstown, that was a huge thrill as well. I've ridden loads of winners for Donnacha (O'Brien) as well so I'd like to thank him a lot.

"It's special."

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