Shock and sadness after death of young jockey in Kerry yesterday

There have been widespread expressions of sympathy and shock at the tragic death of 13-year-old Jack DeBromhead, son of national hunt horse trainer Henry DeBromhead who died in a horse racing accident at Glenbeigh races in Co Kerry yesterday evening.

The young jockey was taking part in what is known as the flapper races on Rossbeigh beach, a popular two day event held every year at the scenic Co Kerry location. The racing event was cancelled following the accident yesterday evening.

It is understood the accident happened during the fifth race at around 5pm yesterday. The young jockey fell from his horse as they were making a turn near the waters edge and some of the horses ended up in the water.

Local councillor Michael Cahill, who lives in Glenbeigh and whose family were attending the event said there was widespread shock and devastation as details of the horrific accident emerged. The young man had only taken part in a similar event in Cahersiveen in Co Kerry last week.

Gardaí said emergency services responded to the incident and the teenager received treatment at the scene but was later pronounced dead.

His body was removed to University Hospital Kerry for a post mortem. Gardaí are also conducting eye witness interviews and are preparing a file for the coronor's court.

The DeBromhead family run their training stables at Knockeen in Co Waterford, where the current stable jockey is Rachael Blackmore. Henry DeBromhead took over the stables from his father Harry and has been a very successful trainer and was a Grand National winner in 2021, and the winner of two Cheltenham Gold cups at the festivals there in 2021 and 2022.