RACING has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of Cheltenham Festival-winning jockey Michael O’Sullivan aged just 24.
The jumps rider passed away following a fall at Thurles Racecourse in Ireland on February 6.
Michael O’Sullivan has sadly passed away[/caption]
The jockey suffered a tragic fall at the Thurles Racecourse earlier this month[/caption]
O’Sullivan was aboard 6-5 fav Wee Charlie when he came down at the final fence of a 2m handicap chase.
The late jockey was airlifted to the Cork University Hospital after the incident, which involved five horses.
The other four riders were all reported to be unhurt and the horses are all believed to be OK.
O’Sullivan remained in intensive care until it was announced, to the shock of the racing world, that he had died in the early hours of Sunday morning, five days shy of his 25th birthday.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board released a statement sending condolences to his family.
It said: “On behalf of the O’Sullivan family, it is with profound sadness that the IHRB confirms the passing of Michael O’Sullivan.
“The directors and staff of the IHRB wish to extend their sincere condolences to Michael’s family, partner, friends, his colleagues, in the weighroom and the wider racing community at this time.”
Dr Jennifer Pugh, chief medical officer of the IHRB also released a statement in which she spoke highly of the jockey.
She said: “Michael sadly passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning surrounded by his loving family in Cork University Hospital.
“We extend our appreciation to the multidisciplinary teams who provided the best of medical care to Michael, both on the racecourse and in Cork University Hospital.
“Michael’s family took the decision to donate his organs at this incredibly difficult time, but in doing so made a choice that will make a real difference to the lives of other patients and their families.
“I have had the privilege of knowing Michael through his amateur and professional career and his dedication, modesty and kind nature always made him a pleasure to be around.
“Michael’s success and his humility will have inspired many and I share the feeling of loss today with all those who knew him.
“Michael’s family would like to reiterate their gratefulness for all the support they have received in the last couple of days and express their appreciation to the local community and racing family.
“The O’Sullivan family have asked for privacy at this time.”
Tributes have flooded social media for the 2023 Supreme-winning jockey.
Grand National-winning trainer Gordon Elliott wrote: “Sending our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Michael O’Sullivan. Rest in peace.”
Renowned pundit Kevin Blake posted: “How utterly cruel life can be.
“It is hard to comprehend what Michael’s family, friends and colleagues are going through. RIP Michael O’Sullivan.”
Legendary trainer Tony Mullins said: “Michael was lovely person and he also had a massive talent. He will always be remembered as a winner. RIP.”
While Sun Racing columnist Ben Pauling said on X: “Just the worst news to wake up to. Quite clearly a huge talent within our sport and will be sorely missed by so many. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Fly high Michael.”
A fan wrote: “The news about Michael O’Sullivan is truly heartbreaking, and our thoughts go out to his family and friends.”
A second commented: “Truly heartbreaking news.”
A third said: “Jockeys, especially Jump Jockeys, put their life on the line every day for our entertainment. RIP Michael O’Sullivan, a life ended far too early.”
Another added: “Absolutely heartbreaking. God speed Michael O’Sullivan. May you rest in peace young man.”
Fixtures at Punchestown and the point-to-point meets at Avondu (F) Knockanard, North Tipperary (F) Nenagh and Bray (H) Tinahely have all been cancelled as a showing of respect.
O’Sullivan was one of the rising stars of the weighing room.
He hit the big time when he won the 2024 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle on Barry Connell’s Marine Nationale.
And he made it an incredible day-one double later with victory in the Boodles Juvenile Handicap on Jazzy Matty.
That partnership with Connell severed in recent weeks, and O’Sullivan was given some rides for Willie Mullins.
Their link-up struck gold early on when O’Sullivan delivered a masterclass on Embassy Gardens in the big New Year’s Day Chase at Tramore.
That contest has been won by Gold Cup kings Minella Indo and Al Boum Photo in the past.
O’Sullivan had 87 wins from 1,037 rides over the past five seasons, amassing almost £1.5million in prize money.
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