Tragic jockey to be laid rest over a week after horror Christmas Eve collision in Limerick

A YOUNG jockey who lost his life on Christmas Eve in a road traffic collision on the N20 Limerick to Cork Road will be laid to rest on Saturday.

Paul Kavanagh, aged 20, was born and raised in Ballybrone, Corofin, Galway but he made Athlacca his home in recent years.

READ NEXT: 'An infectious smile that would light up every room': Tributes paid to jockey who died in Limerick collision

Paul had been riding out as part of Enda Bolger's yard for the last two years. The road traffic collision, involving a car and a lorry, occurred close to the yard on the Limerick side of Hynes’ Cross - between Banogue and O’Rourke’s Cross, Bruree.

Mr Bolger is one of many to pay tribute to the jockey who had a very bright future. Paul has been especially remembered for his beautiful smile, sense of kindness, caring manner and love of horses.

He became part of life in Athlacca, joining the local GAA club and making many friends in south Limerick. 

Dromin Athlacca GAA Club has extended their deepest sympathies to the Kavanagh family on Paul’s sad passing. 

“Paul was a valued player for our club since his arrival in the parish and wore the jersey with distinction. Rest in Peace, Paul,” read a post on the condolence section of rip.ie

Paul will be reposing at Grogan’s Funeral Home, Barrack Street, Tuam (H54Y677) on Friday evening from 5pm until 8pm, followed by removal to his home. 

Requiem Mass on Saturday at 11.30am  in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Tuam. Funeral afterwards to Tuam Cemetery.

His heartbroken family have asked for flowers only by request and donations, if desired, to the Injured Jockeys Fund.

Paul will be forever loved and missed by his heartbroken parents Kevin and Alison, devoted sister and brother Grace and Ryan, his cherished grandad Martin, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, his wide circle of friends, his colleagues at Enda Bolger’s yard and the close-knit horse racing community.

A work colleague said for the time they spent working with Paul, he was never caught without a smile on his face or a helping hand to give. 

“One of the most likeable people that I am honoured to have had the pleasure to work with. A credit to him and his family. May his kind soul rest in peace. Forever in our hearts,” they wrote on rip.ie

Another person to pay tribute was a vet, who attended at Mr Bolger’s yard.

“My deepest condolences to Paul’s family and friends. I was fortunate enough to have met Paul on a number of occasions as a vet who visited Enda’s yard. 

“Paul was always so happy to help me, with a big smile and had a strong love for the horses. May you rest in peace, Paul,” they wrote.