Michael O'Sullivan tribute The tragic passing of Michael O'Sullivan brings the dangers jockeys face on a daily basis into stark focus. Michael packed a lengthy list of achievements, both on and off the racetrack, into his 24 years. A son of William O'Sullivan, who famously rode Lovely Citizen to victory in the Foxhunters at Cheltenham in 1991, Michael began his career 'between the flags' and was crowned champion novice rider in 2019. Lovely Citizen's trainer, Michael's uncle Eugene O'Sullivan, supplied the amateur jockey with his first win under rules on Wilcosdiana by 47 lengths in the Jack Tyner Memorial Hunters Steeplechase at Cork in 2018. The Corkman graduated with a degree in Agricultural Science from University College Dublin, however, racing was clearly in his blood. A blossoming relationship with trainer Barry Connell saw him turn professional in 2022 and the pair successfully teamed up with Marine Nationale in the Grade 1 Royal Bond at Fairyhouse in December that year. Michael drove Connell's Good Land home for Grade 1 glory in the novice hurdle that opened the Dublin Racing Festival in February 2023, and the pair then enjoyed success at the highest level at the Cheltenham Festival when Marine Nationale stormed to victory in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle in March that year - Michael's elation in passing the winning post at Prestbury Park has been captured in many memorable photographs. Not content with one winner on the opening day of the festival, a double was memorably secured when Michael steered Jazzy Matty to victory by a neck in the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle for Gordon Elliott. Michael finished that season as the champion conditional jockey in Ireland with 32 winners, some 12 clear of the runner-up. He forged a link with Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm, who are France-based, and this saw him travel over to France and Britain for rides and winners, while in the freelance ranks he notably rode a double at Tramore on New Year's Day including the Grade 3 feature on Embassy Gardens for Willie Mullins. I interviewed Michael regarding his association with George and Zetterholm, and have to reiterate how eloquent, affable, knowledgeable and talented the jockey was. Sincere condolences to the O'Sullivan family and friends from all at irishracing.com.
