PAUL TOWNEND revealed Michael O’Sullivan “left a long-standing memory” with every one he met.
And both he and Rachael Blackmore predicted big things for the late jockey’s brother following his Cheltenham debut.
Michael O’Sullivan died back in February[/caption]
Michael O’Sullivan tragically died aged 24 on February 16, ten days after a fall at Thurles.
His loss was felt during the Cheltenham Festival, at which the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle was renamed in his honour.
The Corkman won the race in 2023 on Marine Nationale, while four-time champion jockey Paul Townend emerged victorious this year.
It was an emotional occasion for Townend, who wiped away a tear and touched the commemorative armband he was wearing in tribute.
And speaking on the Late Late Show, he admitted to having been going through every emotion imaginable as he paid tribute to O’Sullivan.
He said: “It was extra special.
“It was going to be special to whoever won the race because every one was touched and felt Michael’s loss in their own way.
“Any one who was lucky enough to meet Michael know he left a long standing memory with every one.
“I was just the fortunate one to win the race and I was privileged to win it in his name.
“Just wearing the armband with the Cork crest on it as we crossed the line, it was just came into my mind straight away and I did it without thinking – touching it.
“I am glad I did. I am sure he was looking down watching the Festival.”
Prior to the start of the Festival, the jockeys came together to observe a minute’ silence.
And O’Sullivan’s passing provided a sub-plot later in the week when Marine Nationale and Jazzy Matty – with which he won a Cheltenham double two years ago – both won back-to-back.
Blackmore, who suffered a thankfully temporary neck injury last year, revealed that riders cannot think of the dangers involved in their profession, comparing it to Formula One.
The Grand National winner said: “It was devastating what happened for everyone.
“For his family, for his whole community, every one in the weigh room, his friends but it was his passion.
“It is what he loved doing and I think jockeys are similar to Formula One drivers.
“We just never think about the risks and if you do think about the risks you are going to ride conservatively and mediocre, and Michael was the furthest thing from mediocre.
“You wouldn’t be able to do your job and we are so lucky that we love what we do.
“It is something we love doing and Michael loved doing it and we are very lucky that we get to do our passion and live our dream essentially.
“Michael got to experience two winners at Cheltenham and that is very, very special and I am delighted he got to do that.”
TALENTED BROTHER
Michael’s younger brother Alan made his Festival debut at Prestbury Park, riding Walking On Air for the Kim Muir Handicap Chase.
And both Blackmore and Townend predicted big things in his future.
Blackmore added: “His brother Alan had his first race at Cheltenham during the week as well and he looks like he has all the talent of his brother and he is an inspirational young man.
“He rode three winners point-to-point on his first weekend back and a winner yesterday [Thursday]. He is an incredible man.”
Townend echoed: “He spent a bit of time with us up above. He is a good kid.
“As Rachael said, he has had good success himself and a very capable rider.
“He is a good chap and we will hear plenty more about Alan, definitely.”
