Mikey O’Connor, one among Eire’s most profitable point-to-point riders, has died on the age of 44.
Mikey O’Connor (proper) with Eire’s president Michael D Higgins. (Picture: Fb)
Certainly one of Eire’s most completed point-to-point jockeys was mourned on Friday following his sudden dying at work, aged 44. Mikey O’Connor had secured greater than 429 point-to-point victories since his maiden triumph 26 years in the past, putting him fifth in Eire’s all-time rankings.
He additionally claimed 90 winners beneath guidelines, together with his best achievement coming in a Listed race for Mick Winters in 2009. He was the inaugural rider to triumph on Winter’s future Grade 1 victor Insurgent Fitz and had additionally contributed to the profession of Cheltenham Pageant champion Forpadydeplasterer, securing victory on his bumper debut.
O’Connor had additionally tasted success as a coach, getting ready 27 point-to-point victors and 21 beneath guidelines.
Based on the Irish Subject, O’Connor died of a suspected coronary heart assault at his Co Cork stables.
Horse Racing Eire stated: “We’re deeply saddened to listen to that Mikey O’Connor has handed away. We ship our condolences to his household, buddies and racing colleagues.
“Mikey was one among Eire’s main point-to-point riders using over 400 winners and gained three Southern titles. Might he relaxation in peace.”
Father-of-three O’Connor needed to overcome vital accidents throughout his profession, essentially the most severe which occurred after a final fence fall at Boulta in 2014.
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O’Connor needed to be airlifted the hospital and whereas he continued to experience with success, he required medical clearance from the raceday physician every time he was in motion. His teenage son Dylan, a former pony racing champion, has already ridden 4 winners in his debut season as a Flat apprentice.
O’Connor was instrumental within the early profession of the legendary Denman, the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, having ridden him throughout his preliminary coaching and education when he was referred to as ‘The Tank’.
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