Terrible news has just arrived.
Former national jockey Michael Byrne dies aged 36.
The Irish rider, who competed in many races at the Grand National and at Cheltenham during his career, died on Saturday.
Byrne is perhaps best known for his successful rides under Tim Vaughan, with 96 victories to his credit, 61 of which came on horses trained by Vaughan.
Byrne retired from racing in 2016, citing financial problems, and returned to Tipperary where the horses were being prepared for sale, the Racing Post reported.
Tim Vaughan mourned his passing, saying: “This is truly sad and my heart goes out to Michael's family and friends. Many people across the racing community are mourning.”
“He was a lovely man – reliable, honest and loyal. He started his career at Peter Bowen's stables and worked for us for about five years.
“Dickie (Richard) Johnson was our main jockey at the time and Michael was on a roll and he delivered on his claim here. We had a lot of success together and got on really well.”
Former national jockey Michael Byrne dies aged 36.
Byrne's most memorable career top was at Aintree, where he rode Big Time Billy to victory in 2010 and then rode Golan Way in 2014 Participated in national competition.
His uncle Pat Doyle, from the prestigious Sourview Stables Academy, said: “Michael was very successful as a jockey and a great rider and it's very, very sad.
“He was a great man who loved equestrians and football. He had three brothers and two sisters and the family were all very close. He was a great young man surrounded by a wonderful family and will be sadly missed he.”
As of this writing, Byrne's cause of death has not been confirmed.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
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