Death of O'Connor sends shockwaves through racing community The Irish point-to-point community is mourning the sudden passing of Mikey O’Connor, one of the sport’s most respected riders. Mikey O’Connor passes away aged 44 The sudden death of Mikey O'Connor has sent shockwaves through the point-to-point and wider racing circle. The 44-year-old took ill while working at his yard yesterday evening and subsequently passed away. One of the most senior and well-respected jockeys on the point-to-point scene, he amassed 429 winners over the course of a 26-year career, with his first success coming on Glitter Girl at Kilworth in February of 1999. The Charleville native partnered four winners last season and reached a total of 87 on the racecourse proper. A career in the saddle and training ranks Also an accomplished trainer, he saddled over 20 winners under rules, the latest of which was Therellbguddaysyet at Thurles in November. Father of promising apprentice Dylan, O'Connor is survived by his wife Mags, daughters Sophie and Rachel, mother Noreen and twin sister Elaine. Deepest sympathies to the O'Connor family from all at irishracing.com.
