The Jockey Club have confirmed that the opening Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham Festival will be renamed in honour of Michael O’Sullivan.
The Irish jockey passed away earlier this month, aged 24, due to injuries sustained in a fall at the final fence at Thurles Racecourse on February 6.
O’Sullivan burst onto the scene at Cheltenham back in 2023, winning the Sky Bet Supreme Novices’ Hurdle with Marine Nationale before going on to complete a double, also winning the Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap with Jazzy Matty.
Michael O’Sullivan with Marine Nationale after winning the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle in 2023.
Speaking on the decision to rename the hurdle, CEO of Cheltenham Racecourse Guy Lavender stated:
“Michael was an outstanding jockey and recognised by everyone as a wonderful young man.
“When you read the heartfelt tributes paid to him over these past days, you can see how highly regarded he was in the racing community on both sides of the Irish Sea and beyond.
“Given that it was at Cheltenham that Michael enjoyed his biggest success as a rider back on that magical Tuesday afternoon in 2023, we felt it was only right to pay tribute to Michael in this way.
“Our sincere thanks go to our sponsors of this race, Sky Bet for making it possible. All our thoughts continue to be with Michael’s family, friends and weighing room colleagues at this difficult time and for allowing us to pay tribute in this way.”
The Cheltenham Festival starts on Tuesday 11th March.
