Gym ‘heartbroken’ at fatal shooting of ‘treasured’ member

MEMBERS of the gym founded by Irish boxing champion Katie Taylor’s father are “heartbroken” after a popular member was shot dead in a gun attack.

Sports and fitness enthusiast Bobby Messett (50) died while Katie’s father Pete Taylor (57) sustained serious but nonlife threatening injuries in the attack. A third man, Ian Britton (35), was shot a number of times in the leg.

They were part of a group of up to 20 people at Bray Boxing Club in Co Wicklow who were about to start a session shortly before 7am on Tuesday when a gunman opened fire.

A statement from the club said Mr Messett had been a dedicated and determined member for eight years and it was an “absolute pleasure to have been gifted with so many hours of his time”. The Facebook post added: “We are heartbroken and will miss you dearly... in the front row with Dave, ringside with Andy, increasing those chins every single week, being the first up for any challenge, that poor bruised nose every single time you sparred.

“Morning chats about your race progress, continuously striving to get fitter, faster and stronger every single session. Thank you for being all of our friends, we adore you, and have our treasured memories of moments with you.”

Mr Messett was also a member of the Bray Wheelers cycling club, and a race meet organised for this morning is expected to go ahead with a minute’s silence being held.

“Very respected, and popular member, he will be very much missed by all club members. Our deepest sympathies go out to Bobby’s family and friends,” the club said in a statement.

“After the tragic news of our friend Bobby, we considered our options for this week’s club race. It has been decided that the race will go ahead with a minute’s silence before the race.”

Funeral arrangements were announced last night, with Mass taking place tomorrow morning at 11.30am in St Mochonog’s Church, Kilmacanogue, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.