Former Champion Jockey Johnny Roe Dies Nine Times Irish Champion Jockey Johnny Roe has passed away aged 79. Roe rode from the mid-1950's until 1980 and partnered 2,500 winners in a career that spanned the globe. He began as apprentice to Seamus McGrath before riding for a number of years in Africa. On his return to Ireland he was Champion jockey on nine separate occasions between 1963 and 1974 during which time he was stable jockey to Dermot Weld, John Oxx (senior) and Vincent O'Brien. After retiring from riding Roe trained for a number of years in Macau before returning to Ireland. Roe passed away peacefully in the company of his family in St. Vincent Hospital in Dublin on Sunday. The funeral mass will take place at 10am on Wednesday morning in St. Mary's Church Sandyford Dublin 18 before internment in St. Mochonog's Cemetery, kilmacanogue, Co. Wicklow. The family have requested no flowers. Donations to Irish Injured Jockeys. May he rest in peace.
