Pierce Molony passes away

The hugely popular Pierce Molony, owner and manager of Thurles racecourse, has died following a long illness.

Molony was only 65 years-of-age and is survived by his wife, Riona, and four daughters, Patricia, Helen, Ann Marie and Kate.

He was especially proud of the massive contribution his racecourse, the only one that is privately-owned in the country, makes to racing.

Thurles, which goes ahead today, rarely loses a meeting and has in the past been dubbed Ireland first “all-weather’’ track. It is very much associated with jump racing, in the depths of winter.

Molony took over the racecourse on the death of his father, Dr Paddy Molony, in 1974.

Horse Racing Ireland Chief Executive, Brian Kavanagh, yesterday described Molony as “a gentleman’’ and extended “his deepest sympathies to Riona and family.’’

Local TD, Michael Lowry, issued a statement that read: “It is with deep sadness I acknowledge the death of Pierce Molony. He was a real gentleman and true friend, a loving, devoted husband to Riona and an incredible father to his daughters Helen, Patricia, Ann Marie, and Kate. Pierce was a great character, with a lovely personality, warm, kind and caring, with an unique sense of humour and boundless generosity. He will be sadly missed by his family, a legion of friends and the entire industry.’’