The racing community is mourning the loss of 24-year-old jockey Michael O’Sullivan, who passed away on Sunday, February 16, due to injuries sustained in a fall at Thurles on February 6.
O’Sullivan was riding Wee Charlie for trainer Gerard O’Leary when he fell at the final fence in the two-mile Racing Again Handicap Chase.
A Promising Career Cut Short
O’Sullivan’s career was on the rise, having started out on the point-to-point circuit and being crowned champion under-21 rider in 2019.
He turned professional in September 2022 and had already ridden 90 winners in Ireland and five in Britain under rules.
His most recent big-race success came aboard Embassy Gardens for champion trainer Willie Mullins in the Grade Three New Year’s Day Chase at Tramore.
Outpouring of Support and Tributes
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) released a statement confirming O’Sullivan’s passing, with Dr. Jennifer Pugh, IHRB chief medical officer, saying: “Michael sadly passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning surrounded by his loving family in Cork University Hospital.”
The IHRB also praised O’Sullivan’s family for their decision to donate his organs, which will make a real difference to the lives of other patients and their families.
Racing Community Mourns the Loss
Darragh O’Loughlin, CEO of the IHRB, said: “Michael was an exceptionally talented young rider who was always popular in the weighroom.
Michael will be deeply missed by everyone in racing who had the pleasure of knowing him.” As a mark of respect, the fixture at Punchestown on Sunday and the Point-to-Point fixtures have been cancelled.
A Legacy of Kindness and Humility
O’Sullivan’s family has asked for privacy at this difficult time, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched in the racing community.
His dedication, modesty, and kind nature made him a pleasure to be around, and his success and humility will continue to inspire many. Our thoughts are with O’Sullivan’s family and loved ones during this tragic time.