Racing world in shock after death of young jockey
The 19-year-old son of well-known Innishannon-based trainer Robert Tyner was taken to Cork University Hospital after taking a heavy fall in the second section of the six-year-old and upwards mares’ maiden when his mount, Dusmagic, crashed out at the first fence.
Ironically, the teenager had won the previous race, the first division of that contest, aboard Exitnell.
Jack was the only son of Robert and Mary Tyner, who also have five daughters. He had ridden six winners in his short career.
Innishannon parish priest, Rev John Kingston, said the whole community was in shock at the passing of the young rider.
“I know the family and obviously they are devastated. They are a fine family with a great history in the racing and equestrian community. It’s just a tragic loss and the whole community is shocked and saddened by the loss.”
Kinsale-based councillor Tomás O’Brien also expressed his shock at the death of the popular young jockey. “People are just devastated by this. It’s tragic that it happened to a lad so young.
“Jack was a seriously good jockey and so dedicated to the sport. There was shock when people found out he was in hospital with serious injuries but when I heard he had died, I just couldn’t believe it. He had his whole life ahead of him and people are just in a state of shock and horror really.”
Aintree Grand National winning trainer Jimmy Mangan, himself a former top class point-to-point rider, yesterday summed up the grief felt by people in racing.
“Robert and Mary are the salt of the earth. I am so sorry for them and their family, my heart goes out to them.
“Jack was the most improved young rider I had seen on the circuit of late, while Robert and Mary leave no stone unturned to give a service to their patrons.’’
Jack Tyner spent some time with Enda Bolger, who described his Co Limerick base yesterday as “very sombre”.
“Jack was with me for a season and the three lads he shared a house with here are devastated.
“Jack was a thorough gentleman, he was part of the place. He was a very bright young man, full of brains, a nice young lad.
“His father sent him to me for the experience. Sadly, he was just starting to get going, getting the few winners to give him confidence.’’
Philip Enright, who is first jockey to Robert Tyner, said: “Jack was a cheerful fellow, his glass was always half full, never half empty…
“Robert has been very good to me, he is a loyal man. I rode out with Jack every morning, this is devastating.’’
Turf Club chief executive, Denis Egan, said: “Jack’s death is a tragedy for his family and everyone associated with racing.
“It is only when something like this happens that it brings home the risks all riders take on a daily basis.
“Our deepest sympathies go to his parents, Robert and Mary, and to all of his family.’’
Jack Tyner rode his first winner on the racecourse at Limerick in November 2008 on Square Sphere, which was owned by his mother. Best known in the point-to-point fields, he had his second success on the track at Limerick on January 27 last aboard Whatwillwecallher, trained by his father.
He had four winners to his credit in point-to-points, from about 120 rides.
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