Speaking regarding the sad passing of Irish amateur jockey John Thomas (“JT”) McNamara, Nick Rust, Chief Executive of the British Horseracing Authority, said:

“We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of JT McNamara.

“None of us will forget his four Cheltenham Festival winners, in which his remarkable talent was so clearly highlighted. Nor will we forget the day of his accident. The entire sport shared in the concern for JT. Nowhere was this more evident than among his fellow riders, who came together to show support for a popular colleague and a great horseman.

“We all know the risks jockeys face each and every time they set foot on a racecourse. Without their bravery and resilience we would not have a sport. We thank and salute them all for this. Racing cares greatly for its human and equine participants and when one is hurt the whole industry comes together in sadness.

“JT rode over 600 winners in a wonderful career and brought joy to so many along the way. Today all our thoughts are with his family and friends.”