Jockey JT McNamara Dies Aged 41

Irish jockey JT McNamara has died aged 41.

The jockey from Limerick was paralysed after a fall at the 2013 Cheltenham Festival.

Cheltenham Racecourse posted on Twitter: "We are saddened to hear of the death of JT McNamara. Our thoughts are with his wife Caroline, his children and all who knew him."

McNamara rode four winners at the Cheltenham Festival.

According to reports, he was rushed to the University Hospital in Limerick and returned home to spend his final days with his family.

He is survived by wife, Caroline, two sons, Dylan and Harry, and daughter Olivia.

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Patrick O'Donovan TD, said: "My thoughts are particularly with his wife Caroline and his three children; Dylan, Harry and Olivia at this very difficult time.

"JT had an outstanding career with over 600 victories and was a four-time Cheltenham Festival winner. His successes included all of the significant races for amateur jockeys at the Cheltenham Festival such as the National Hunt Chase on two occasions (2002 and 2012), the Cross Country Chase in 2005 and the Fox Hunter Chase in 2007. He was one of Ireland's finest amateur jockeys and was widely respected and loved by the whole racing family.

"A proud Limerick man, JT has been an inspiration to us all in the very dignified and courageous way he adapted to his vastly changed circumstances following his devastating fall in 2013. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by everyone in the horse racing community and beyond ."

(DT)