Tributes paid to young jockey Michael O’Sullivan who dies aged 25
Olivia Kelleher
The IHRB has confirmed that Cork jockey Michael O’Sullivan passed away in the early hours of this morning (Sunday) “surrounded by his loving family in Cork University Hospital.”
The 25-year-old was hospitalised on February 7th following a serious last fence fall in Thurles, Co Tipperary.
The IHRB has announced the death on behalf of the O’Sullivan family. They said it was with “profound sadness” that they confirmed the news.
The Directors and staff of the IHRB wish to extend their sincere condolences to Michael’s family, partner, friends, colleagues in the weight room and the wider racing community at this time.
Dr Jennifer Pugh, chief medical officer of the IHRB, said that they wanted to extend their appreciation to the multidisciplinary teams who provided the best of medical care to Michael, both on the racecourse and in the hospital.
“Michael’s family decided 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.”
Darragh O’Loughlin chief executive of the IHRB said that Michael was an “exceptionally talented young rider” who was always popular in the weight room.
“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 keenly.”
As a mark of respect to Michael, the fixture at Punchestown today (Sunday) and the Point to Point fixtures Avondu (F) Knockanard, North Tipperary (F) Nenagh and Bray (H) Tinahely have all been cancelled.
O'Sullivan shot to public attention two years ago when he won the Supreme Novices' Hurdle at Cheltenham aboard Marine Nationale before going on to win the Fred Winter with Jazzy Matty. This season he has ridden 14 winners in Ireland and two in Britain.