Death of Dave Cronin The horse racing and greyhound communities have been shocked at the sudden death of Evening Echo racing editor Dave Cronin. One of the sport's leading tipsters, Dave previously worked on the racing desk of the Irish Examiner. He was 51 and married with two teenage children. Horse Racing Ireland CEO Brian Kavanagh said: "It was a great shock to hear of the sudden death of Dave at such a young age. He was a dedicated racing correspondent with a great knowledge of the game. Deepest sympathies to his family and friends at this difficult time." His long time colleague Irish Examiner racing correspondent Pat Keane said last night they had soldiered together for more than two decades. "There were no set hours with him. His attitude was quite simple, if a job was worth doing, it was worth doing properly. To me he had two great loves in his life, his family and backing the odd winner. He adored his wife, Caroline, and two children, Alison and Paul. If you wanted to see Dave's face light up then you only had to ask him a question about any of the three." Kean added: "Dave was a good judge of horses, but an even better judge of greyhounds. He was hugely respected in both sports and when, in particular, he told you a dog would win, it invariably did. He was successful on two occasions in the Irish Field Saturday naps table. Sadly, he is the current leader and was well on his way to a third triumph." CRONIN (Cork): On July 31, 2011, unexpectedly, at his residence, DAVID, The Lough (late of Evening Echo), loving husband of Caroline (nee Irwin) and dear father of Alison and Paul. Sadly missed by his loving wife and family, sister Mary, mother-in-law Katherine, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. May he rest in peace. Reposing at Forde's Funeral Home, South Gate Bridge. Removal on this (Tuesday) evening at 6.30pm to Church of the Immaculate Conception, The Lough. Funeral on tomorrow (Wednesday), after 1pm Requiem Mass to St Oliver's Cemetery. No flowers, please. Donations, in lieu, if desired, to the Simon Community. House private.
