Jockey’s death ‘will not be in vain’ say friends

THE DEATH of renowned amateur jockey John Thomas McNamara, three years after being paralysed in a racecourse fall, will not be in vain, mourners have said.

Hundreds of family, friends and leading lights from the world of racing turned out to pay respects in the village of Manister, Co Limerick, near the rider’s home and stables.

Known as JT to all, including punters, the 41-year-old respected horseman was said to have lived his last years with strength, courage and determination after breaking his neck in a fall at the Cheltenham Festival in 2013.

Sir Tony McCoy, a friend and 20-time Champion Jockey, echoed the sentiments of racehorse owner JP McManus who said his death will ultimately help other injured jockeys.

“JP’s right about that. His life, it hasn’t been lost in vain,” the retired jockey said.

“A lot of good came out of it. A lot of people got brought together.”

Sir Tony was among dozens of jockeys, trainers, breeders and others from the racing fraternity who gathered at the little white chapel in a part of rural Ireland synonymous with thoroughbred racing and breeding.

Canon Gary Bluett said JT’s life revolved around his passions, family and racing and said he was “strong and determined”.