LIMERICK jockey and one of the county’s finest exports to the world of horse racing, John Thomas McNamara, has died at his home aged 41.
As the news broke this Tuesday morning, the world of horse racing, sport and the wider Limerick community were devastated to learn of the passing of one of the finest amateur jockeys to grace the national hunt circuit.
John Thomas McNamara fractured two vertebrae in his neck after he was thrown from his mount, Galaxy Rock during the 2013 Cheltenham festival.
The fall paralysed the Limerick man from the neck down and wheelchair bound for 15 months.
John Thomas is survived by his wife Caroline, his two sons Dylan, Harry and his daughter Olivia.
It is understood that John Thomas suffered complications last Friday night and was later transferred to University Hospital Limerick.
He was later discharged and returned home to his family
John Thomas or JT as he was more commonly known, died at home surrounded by his family this Tuesday.
With more than 600 race wins under his belt, JT was one of the finest amateur jockeys to emerge in the modern era.
During the 2012 Cheltenham festival, JT partnered Teaforthree to secure a famous win in the Diamond Jubilee National Hunt Chase.
In 2002 he rode Rith Dubh to victory in the same race and in 2005 he landed the Glenfarclas Cross County Handicap Chase with Spot Thedifference and in in 2007 he rode Drombeag to first past the post in the Foxhunter Chase.
The remains of JT will repose at his home on Thursday from 2pm to 8.30pm followed by removal to St Michael’s Church, Manister.
Requiem Mass on Friday at 11am with burial afterwards in local cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations, if desired, to the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund.
