Jockey Tom O’Brien, Cheltenham festival winner, dies aged 39
Former professional jockey Tom O'Brien has passed away at the age of 39 following a cancer diagnosis. O'Brien was a highly respected figure in horse racing, known for his long-term association with trainer Philip Hobbs and over 1,000 career wins.
Why it matters
O'Brien's death marks the loss of a significant contributor to the sport of horse racing, prompting tributes from the racing community.
Tom O'Brien enjoyed his most prestigious Grade One victories aboard Thyme Hill in the Stayers’ Hurdle at Aintree and the Kauto Star Novice Chase at Kempton. Photograph: Alamy Live News. Tom O'Brien enjoyed his most prestigious Grade One victories aboard Thyme Hill in the Stayers’ Hurdle at Aintree and the Kauto Star Novice Chase at Kempton. Photograph: Alamy Live News. Horse racing Jockey Tom O’Brien, Cheltenham festival winner, dies aged 39 O’Brien rode more than 1,000 winners over jumps
‘Tom meant so much to so many people across our sport’
Prefer the Guardian on Google Tom O’Brien, who rode more than 1,000 winners over jumps including five Grade Ones and two at the Cheltenham festival, has died at the age of 39 after being diagnosed with cancer.
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