In reaction to the tragic news confirmed today by the Injured Jockeys Fund that Keagan Kirkby, 25, has died following a fall at Charing Point-to-Point in Kent, BHA Chief Executive Julie Harrington issued the following statement:
鈥淲e are devastated to hear the tragic news regarding the fatal injuries sustained by Keagan Kirkby. Our thoughts are with his family and friends, and everyone at the yard of Paul Nicholls. The entire Racing industry will be in mourning at the loss of someone so young and with such potential.
鈥淭he esteem in which he was held is clear from the fact that he was nominated for the Rider/Groom category of the 2024 Thoroughbred Industry Employee Awards, and made it through to the final 10 in his category. The nomination spoke of Keagan鈥檚 qualities as a thoughtful rider who develops a personal bond with his horses, understands their characters and adapts his riding accordingly, as well as his affable, helpful nature and popularity on the yard.
鈥淲e call on everyone to respect the privacy of Keagan鈥檚 family and the Paul Nicholls yard.鈥�
