Top trainer’s wife dies in hunting fall
THE world of horse racing has been shaken following the tragic death of the wife of one of the country’s top trainers.
Maria O’Grady (61), wife of racehorse trainer Edward O’Grady, died after a fall in a hunting accident close to their family home near the village of Ballynonty, Co Tipperary, on Saturday morning.
Ms O’Grady was a member of the Tipperary Hunt Branch of the Irish Pony Club.
It is believed the accident happened near the townland of Grantstown near Tipperary town where a local hunt was taking place.
It is understood Ms O’Grady was thrown from her horse as she was jumping a fence. An air ambulance was called but it is believed Ms O’Grady died instantly.
In a statement, Ms O’Grady’s stepson Jonathan said: “On behalf of Edward and family it is with shock and profound sorrow that I confirm Maria O’Grady died suddenly following a tragic fall on the hunting field. Beloved wife, revered mother and ardent friend, she will be inordinately missed.”
Ms O’Grady, who was a native of Ballymackey in Nenagh, is survived by her husband Edward and daughters Mimi and Rosie Mae, her extended family Jonathan, Amber and Lucy, her sister Katherine and brother-in-law Konrad.
A death notice for Ms O’Grady said that her body would repose at her home today between 4pm and 7pm, with a funeral Mass taking place in the Church of St Joseph the Worker, Moyglass, tomorrow morning.
Following the 11.30am Mass, Ms O’Grady will be buried at the adjoining cemetery.
Edward O’Grady (68) is one of the country’s most famous National Hunt trainers.
His stud is based at Killeens, Ballynonty. He has had many winners in both Ireland and the UK and is the third most successful Irish trainer at Cheltenham, having trained 18 winners.
His first Cheltenham winner came in 1974 when Mouse Morris rode Mr Midland to victory.
Other winners have come in the Champion Bumper, the Triumph Hurdle and the World Hurdle.