Award-winning racing journalist Tom O'Ryan has died at the age of 61 after a battle with lung cancer. O'Ryan, who was named Racing Journalist of the Year in 2002, worked for Racing Post as well as the Press newspaper in York. He was also a columnist for Sporting Life and an anchor and analyst for Racing UK.
In addition to his media roles, O'Ryan was a well-regarded jockey and a leading apprentice before his weight forced him to give up riding. O'Ryan continued to ride out for many years for trainer Richard Fahey, who Tweeted on Tuesday, “Devastated to say that Tom O'Ryan passed away earlier today. Can't say how much we will all miss him. We've lost the voice of the north. Tom's family have asked me to share the news. Tom was an incredible horseman and brilliant writer. Racing is a poorer sport without him in it.”
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