Jockey Paul Kavanagh, 20, died in a road collision on Christmas Eve in Limerick and tributes have been pouring in for the talented young rider
The Irish racing community is mourning the loss of a 20-year-old jockey, who tragically died in a road accident on Christmas Eve.
Paul Kavanagh, originally from Tuam, sadly lost his life in a car crash near Bruee in County Limerick.
Jockeys at all three Irish race meetings on Friday (December 26) donned black armbands and spectators observed a minute’s silence in memory of the young rider.
Kavanagh was associated with the Enda Bolger yard in Limerick, having previously been based in the UK.
The news has shocked the close-knit Irish racing community, casting a shadow over the three Irish meetings on Friday at Leopardstown, Limerick and Down Royal, reports Galway Beo.
Kavanagh celebrated his first win in Ireland back in June, riding the Bolger-trained Gimme A Buzz to victory for owner JP McManus at Clonmel.
Since returning from working with David Loughnane in England, where he rode his first winner at Carlisle in 2023, he had also ridden for several other trainers including Eric McNamara, Michael Winters and John McConnell.
Fellow jockey Ricky Doyle expressed his sorrow on social media, writing: “Very sad to hear of the passing of Paul Kavanagh. He was a gentleman and it was a pleasure to get to know him.”
He added: “Condolences to his family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
The fatal collision took place on the N20 road in the Bruree area around 2am on Christmas Eve morning.
Gardaí are urging anyone who was on the N20 in the Bruree area between 1.40am and 2.15am to get in touch.
They’re also asking any motorists with dashcam footage to share it with them.
You can reach out to the Gardaí at the Newcastle West Garda Station on 069 20650, or ring the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. Alternatively, you can contact any garda station.
Details of the funeral have not been released yet.
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