Jockey, 25, lifeless after being thrown from horse mid-race as tributes pour in
Jockey Keagan Kirkby has tragically died on the age of 25 after being thrown from a horse mid-race.
Kirkby, who labored for champion coach Paul Nicholls, was thrown from a horse whereas racing at Charing, Kent. The tragedy occurred on Sunday when his horse ran out by way of the wing of a fence on the second circuit of the ultimate race of the day.
A heartbroken Nicholls posted on Twitter: “Life is so hard sometimes, winners totally insignificant compared to what has happened today. Sadly Keagan Kirby one of our best, hardworking lads lost his life today riding in a point to point.
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“All at workforce Ditcheat are mortified. Thoughts with all his family and friends. He was obsessed with his job and his driving and rode Afadil day-after-day. Last factor he stated to me on Friday was ‘boss Afadil will win tomorrow’. How proper he was. RIP Keag we’ll all miss you terribly.”
On-site medics rushed to Kirkby immediately after his fall, an air ambulance was also called to the course but they were unable to save him. A statement from the Injured Jockeys’ Fund said: “It is with deep sadness that we have to report that West Country point-to-point rider, Keagan Kirkby, 25, has died following a fall at Charing point-to-point in Kent today.
“His horse, trained locally, ran out through the wing of a fence on the second circuit of the final race. The on course medical team attended immediately and despite additional support from a 999 Helicopter Emergency Services Crew, he could not be saved.
“Keagan was a revered member of the Paul Nicholls workforce, who joined in 2019 and who had been awarded worker of the month in December 2021. He was shortlisted for the Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards within the Rider / Groom class 2024.
“We kindly ask that everybody respects the privateness of Keagan’s household and the workforce at Paul Nicholls Racing at this tragic time.”
(Image: Getty Images)
The tragedy comes only a day after the lack of star horse Hermes Allen – co-owned by Manchester United icon Sir Alex Ferguson – who tragically died at Sandown on Saturday.
The favorite was chasing eventual winner Nickle Back when he fell throughout the Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase. Despite efforts from on-site vets, the Grade One Challow Hurdle hero could not be saved. Part-owner Sir Alex watched the race from the observe alongside pal Ged Mason, who additionally had a share within the seven-year-old.
