'His dignity and courage impressed everyone' - those we sadly lost in 2020

Pat Smullen's death at the age of only 43 on September 15 deprived Irish racing of one of its greatest jockeys, a nine-time champion and notable charity fundraiser.

His long partnership with Dermot Weld was a cornerstone of the sport, highlighted by the victories of the Aga Khan's Harzand in the Derby and Irish Derby in 2016.

Smullen's dignity and courage in the face of the pancreatic cancer that ended his career in 2018 impressed everyone, especially in light of his fundraising drive (including a legends race at the Curragh) that raised €2.6 million.