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Tributes Pour In For 'Beautiful, Decent, And Kind' Champion Jockey Pat Smullen

Tributes Pour In For 'Beautiful, Decent, And Kind' Champion Jockey Pat Smullen
Michael McCarthy
By Michael McCarthy
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The Irish sporting world is in mourning today after news emerged last night of the death of Pat Smullen. Smullen had been battling pancreatic cancer since March 2018, and sadly passed away yesterday at St. Vincent's Hospital in Dublin, aged just 43.

Smullen was one of the finest jockeys of his generation, crowned Irish champion jockey nine times, and winning 12 Classics in Ireland, Britain, and France, including the 2016 Epsom Derby.

However, as much as incredible racing prowess, Smullen's dignity and class, as well as his tireless work, since being diagnosed two and a half years ago will be what he's remembered for.

The Rhode native spearheaded a huge charity initiative last year, raising over €2.5million for pancreatic cancer trials. Ironically a year ago to the day of the death, Smullen ran the Champions Race for Cancer Trials Ireland at The Curragh, an event which gathered massive support. Smullen was due to ride the race, but told RTE the same day that he had experienced a recent set back in his recovery.

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Smullen is survived by his wife Frances, and their three children, Hannah, Paddy, and Sarah.

Naturally, there was a huge number of tributes for a great man, led by President Michael D. Higgins.

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