Michael O’Sullivan, a jockey from Ireland that fell from his horse in Thurles Racecourse, has died more than a week after the fall, Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) said in a news message. He was 24.
He fell from his horse during racing again on February 20 Handicap Chase on February 6th.
CLICK HERE for more sports cover at Foxnews.com
Michael O’Sullivan celebrates at Marine National after winning 13:30 The Sky Bet Supreme Novices. (Reuters/Peter Cziborra)
“Michael was an unusually talented young rider who was always popular in the road room,” IHRB CEO Darragh O’Loughlin said in the release. “Michael will be deeply missed by everyone in Racing who had the pleasure of knowing him. Our hearts go out to Michael’s family, especially his parents Bernadette and William and his brother Alan, who will feel his loss most.”
Dr. Jennifer Pugh, IHRB’s Chief Medical Officer, said O’Sullivan’s family decided to donate his organs.
“I’ve had the privilege of knowing Michael through his amateur and professional career and his dedication, modesty and friendly nature always made him a pleasure to be nearby,” Pugh added. “Michael’s success and his humility will have inspired many, and I share the feeling of loss today with all those who knew him.
Churchill Downs abolishes Bob Baffert’s suspension after horse trainer admits errors in the scandal
Impaire a fit, run by Paul Townend and Good Land, run by Michael O’Sullivan, in action during the 13:30 BALLYMORE novices. (Reuters/Peter Cziborra)
“Michael’s family would like to repeat their gratitude for all the support they have received in the past few days and express their appreciation to the local community and the racing family. The O’Sullivan family has asked for privacy at this time.”
O’SUllivan became Pro in 2022 and won the chief Novices’ Hurdle the next year at the Cheltenham festival, according to the BBC. He had 95 wins in Ireland and the UK during his career.
“It’s terrible news that puts all our problems in context. He will be very missed here and there is a real sadness here,” said coach Willie Mullins through the sales. “He was here two mornings a week and was very much part of the team, and his part here would only get bigger. He was such a natural rider who was very modest, friendly and underrated.
“He had a great understanding of horses and racing and got the horse, he was the man. I think Closutton will be a much poorer place without him and we as a family will miss him. He will be very missed in the yard and we Has his family in our thoughts and our prayers are for them now.
