Jockey Michael O’Sullivan dies at 24 after fall in horse racing

Irish jockey Michael O’Sullivan has died days after being injured when he fell in a race. He was 24.

O’Sullivan was hospitalized and was put in an induced coma after falling on two miles long racing again on February 20 Handicap Chase on February 6. He died of his injuries on Sunday, February 16 press release.

“Michael unfortunately died during the early hours of Sunday morning surrounded by his loving family at Cork University Hospital,” said Dr. Jennifer Pugh, medical director of IHRB.

“We expand our appreciation to the interdisciplinary team that provided the best medical care to Michael, both on the race track and at Cork University Hospital,” Pugh added that O’Sullivan’s family donated its organs.

O’Sullivan was one of three jockeys that fell at the last fence for two miles the race again on February 20 Handicap Chase at Thurles Racecourse in Ireland, BBC Sports reported.

The rider from Lombardstown in County Cork, Ireland, was treated on the track and then transported to hospital with air ambulance where he remained until his death just five days before his 25th birthday, according to the outlet.

O’SULLIVAN was named Champion Rider during 21 years in 2019, before becoming a professional in September 2022. His career took a year later when he won Supreme Novices’ obstacles at Cheltenham aboard Marine Nationalne, Per BBC Sports.

He rode 95 winners in Ireland and the United Kingdom throughout his career. He also won Fred Winter with Jazzy Matty and was crowned the champion conditional in Ireland with 32 winners, according to the British newspaper The custodian.

“I have had the privilege of knowing Michael through his amateur and professional career and his commitment, modesty and friendly nature always made him a pleasure to be with,” Pugh continued. “Michael’s success and his humility will have inspired many and I share the feeling of loss today with all those who knew him.”

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The CEO of IHRB, Darragh O’Loughlin, said according to the press release, “Michael was an exceptionally talented young rider who was always popular in the road room. Michael will be deeply missed by everyone in racing who had the pleasure of knowing him. ”

O’Sullivan is survived by his parents Bernadette and William and his brother Alan.

Sports events at Punchestown and various other places in Ireland that will take place on Sunday 16 February have been canceled with regard to the news of O’Sullivan’s death.