Jockey killed on horse with ‘a reputation for falling’

UP-AND-COMING jump jockey Kieran Kelly was riding a horse with a reputation for falling when he received fatal injuries after his mount stumbled in a steeplechase, an inquest heard yesterday.

Kieran Kelly, aged 25, of Ruanbeg Close, Kildare Town, Co Kildare, died from serious brain injuries he received after Balmy Native fell at the fifth fence at Kilbeggan racetrack on August 8, 2003.

Mr Kelly was the first jockey to lose his life on an Irish racecourse in 17 years.